Please note that while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content within this magazine, Venture Publications Pty Ltd and FlyNamibia accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. The views expressed by individual authors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or FlyNamibia. All material, including text and images, is the property of its respective authors and cannot be reproduced or used without explicit permission from Venture Publications Pty Ltd.
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Namibian
Agnes Shivute An environmental consultant with interest in indigenous flora, nature enthusiast,
Maggie Forcelledo Paz
& Content
Passion and dedication to keep the nation abreast with what’s happening on national and international level.
Elzanne McCulloch Writer, editor and publisher of Stories that Matter. Managing Director of Venture Media.
David Bishop Host of Nova Sunrise on Nova 103.5, climbing wall owner, voracious reader, sometime writer, active lifestyle proponent, family man, and coffee lover.
Kirsty Watermeyer Media and communication consultant, storyteller and writer. A Multi-media producer, presenter, voice artist and curious wellbeing enthusiast.
Sevelinus Kalembela A Namibian writer celebrating local style, trends, and individuality through vibrant, accessible storytelling and commentary.
from bonn@venture.com.na
Madeleen Duvenhage Windhoek-based writer and occasional poet. Perpetually scouting for hidden gems and offbeat narratives found in the ordinary.
Dr. Daleen de Lange I am passionate about mental health and about every visiting individual with his/her own needs within a unique personal context.
Rukee Kaakunga A Windhoek-based communications specialist, blogger and freelance fashion writer. Contact her via email: rukeekaakunga@gmail.com
Muningandu Hoveka
Multidisciplinary creative and digital content creator, weaving stories through art, culture and digital media—crafting narratives that connect and inspire.
News
Editor.
Namibia Botanical Society awardee and aspiring author
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The seasonal FlyNamibia Safari schedule will resume on 1 May 2025 and run until 30 November 2025. Our daily shuttle flight operates in a clockwise circuit seven days a week. The exact departure and arrival times are determined the day before the flight and will be communicated directly to lodges, tour operators, and transfer companies. A minimum of two passengers is required per sector. All destinations remain available on a private charter basis.
For more information, contact: Email: safari@flynamibia.com.na
As the cool, crisp air of winter descends on Namibia, we find ourselves in the heart of safari season – a time when the landscapes are golden, the wildlife is abundant, and the call of adventure is impossible to ignore.
At FlyNamibia, we’re proud to be part of the journey that takes you to the wild and wonderful corners of our region. Our FlyNamibia Safari Route is now in full swing, connecting explorers with Namibia’s most iconic destinations. Whether you’re heading to Etosha for a classic game-viewing experience or venturing into the rugged landscapes of Damaraland, the adventurous coast and the vast south, we’re ready to fly you there.
We’re also thrilled to celebrate our parent company, Westair Aviation’s, partnership with Gondwana Collection Namibia as part of the Fly-in Zambezi initiative – a route that celebrates the power of regional connectivity. With scheduled flights between Windhoek, Katima Mulilo, Maun, and Victoria Falls, this route opens up a seamless way to experience the KAZA region – one of the most spectacular cross-border conservation areas on the continent. Now is the perfect time to explore the lush waterways of the Zambezi, the Okavango Delta’s intricate channels, and the thunderous majesty of the Victoria Falls.
This month also brings us to one of the most important events on the African travel industry calendar – Experience Africa, taking place in London. We look forward to engaging with our partners and showcasing the incredible potential of Namibia as a destination – and FlyNamibia as the airline connecting travellers to the heart of it all.
Wherever this flight is taking you, we’re honoured to be part of your journey.
Warm regards, The FlyNamibia Team
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Hooves & Gardens
“Here, have some more!” Another batch of yellow baby tomatoes is generously stuffed into my hand, as we step between rambling rows of trellised tomatoes teeming inside a greenhouse. I am back at Hooves and Gardens, nearly a year after my own wedding reception was held on this spacious family farmhouse-style property. In between reminiscing about my wedding day, I am treated to a personal tour of the grounds and the most recent developments. Trailing behind Christiane Reé-Ahlenstorf, cofounder of Hooves and Gardens, I happily munch away. Sweet tomatoes burst with flavour inside my mouth. It is a beautiful, sunny Sunday morning.
S“SO
ituated 25 kilometres south of Windhoek (towards Rehoboth), Hooves and Gardens sits right on the busy B1 highway. This location is somewhat ironic and incongruous, since there is an unexpected quiet which envelops me once I walk up the steps of the farmhouse, drenched in morning light.
MUCH POTENTIAL!”
Formerly known as the Aris Hotel, the property stood vacant and abandoned for years. Selling for N$8 million, each prospective buyer balked at the amount of work (and capital no less) that would need to be sourced towards its renovation and development. “The building was just a heap of rubbish. It was basically falling apart,” Christiane recalls. Yet her children, seeing the property for the first time, responded with unlikely optimism. “Here is so much potential!” her daughter exclaimed as she spotted the premises from the road while driving by. Her son, Leo, who now manages Hooves and Gardens, instantly agreed.
As it turned out, that optimism proved to be contagious. “We came with shining eyes, lots of enthusiasm … and not much money!” Christiane lets out a deep belly laugh and shakes her head as she recounts those first audacious months spent dreaming up something new.
Christiane has a long-standing connection with the Farm Krumhuk Project – Namibia’s established sustainable farm and business – and alongside various partners with a similar vision, she and her team hunkered down on transforming
an unremarkable, crumbling pile into an enterprise that is noticeably different, or as she calls it, “a space outside of our normal, busy lives”.
The saying “hard work pays off” is sometimes a stale cliché in how often we breezily use it, but it still rings true. Walking around the place, from the neatly constructed wooden jungle gym (the biggest in Namibia!) to the lively chatter of families enjoying breakfast, I am stunned by all the growth that has seemingly sprung up in the space of just a year.
FARM ROUND
Children weave in and out of our conversation. A small boy bolts out in front of me, boisterous, his pockets bulging with glossy green peppers. Christiane explains, laughing: “Ah yes, that boy is probably on a Farm Round!”
One of the must-do activities at Hooves and Gardens is the Farm Round, a family-friendly outing where children of all ages are guided through the grounds and introduced to its furry and feathery inhabitants: a tame oryx, donkeys, horses, ducks, chickens, turkeys, bunnies, pigs … and even a few Dexter cows (a smaller, slightly more endearing cattle breed). The Farm Round also explores Hooves and Gardens’ own small-scale organic vegetable production, providing wholesome and healthy food directly to the restaurant. “Children need to know where their food comes from and experience the joy of being able to harvest and eat their veggies on the spot.” During these excursions, they are free to pick vegetables from the greenhouse and take it back home as a scrumptious souvenir.
Remembering her own upbringing in rural Germany, Christiane wanted to implement fun, interactive activities where children can discover and appreciate their own inexorable connection to nature, animals and food production. Booking a Farm Round in advance is not compulsory, which makes it conveniently flexible for those prone to undertaking spontaneous day trips! “Nature enriches us; it doesn’t isolate like our screens tend to do. Nature, in my opinion, provides more substance compared to social media. This is true for both children and adults.”
SHARED HUMAN VALUES
During my “tour”, I peek into the kitchen where I am greeted by friendly smiles while the head chef, Queen, presents a plate of opulently stacked pancakes drizzled with chocolate sauce. A large jug of minty and lemon iced tea is placed next to a tray of cups. Queen tells me that this sweet, refreshing snack is all set to be taken outside to the group of children relaxing beneath the shade. Each Farm Round is topped off with this enjoyable finale.
“I never wanted Hooves and Gardens to be exclusively profitdriven with a sterile-like atmosphere. Rather, I wanted a place reminding us of our shared human values. I want people to feel noticed,” says Christiane. This personal philosophy translates to the pragmatic as staff affectionately call her “Ouma” (grandmother). Since its inception, Hooves and Gardens continues to prioritise training and equipping of its staff members. “We are passionate about empowering our staff so that they can develop professionally and maybe even go on to build their own sustainable endeavours!”
As we sit down for breakfast inside the restaurant, Daniel, our waiter, serves me a complimentary sampler: homemade tomato and eggplant sauce dipped in freshly baked mini buns. I gobble it all down even before my cappuccino arrives. These sauces are the latest culinary creations from the kitchen, where the chef is always at play and has free pickings from the poultry, piggery and home-grown vegetables.
This intentional “food-to-table approach” reaches beyond simply the menu. A holistic, sustainable ethos is what undergirds the whole business. Christiane and her team of staff and volunteers hope that this will continue for many years to come. With her sprightly sense of humour and characteristic German candour, she is always buzzing with ideas!
The arts are also looked after here: Hooves and Gardens aims to create regular platforms for emerging artists and local stories. At present, the Goethe-Institut is exhibiting a collection of thought-provoking photographs in a beautifully curated room especially designed for this purpose. Christiane hopes more artists and authors will be showcased in the future. As with organically sourced meals, art and imagination plays an equally crucial role in cultivating our wellbeing.
REST FOR YOUR SOUL
Once Christiane left an empty bowl right at the entrance and explained to visitors that once they enter Hooves and Gardens, they need to leave all their stress in that bowl. They were (she says with a smile) at first bemused by this beaming matronly figure telling them to toss, metaphorically at least, all their weekly worries into a mere bowl! However, perhaps enchanted by the weaver birds building nests overhead or enticed by the aroma of coffee, they meekly submit. Even grown-ups (gasp!) can unwind here from the world’s frantic hamster wheel and as Christiane puts it, experience “a little rest for your soul”.
We are forever overstimulated; devoted to our screensaturated lifestyles. Could the perfect antidote be Hooves and Gardens? Come on, cast those worries into the bowl and see what adventure might unfold once you enter through the door!
Madeleen Duvenhage
First published in the Autumn 2025 issue of Travel Namibia magazine. Suscribe to Travel Namibia here: www.travelnewsnamibia.zinioapps.com/shop
WHAT ELSE IS ON OFFER AT HOOVES AND GARDENS:
• Pottery and wine date nights for couples.
• Book your next event at the coffee shop & restaurant and relish their organic culinary dishes.
• Are you an artist and want to showcase your work? Get in touch!
• Horseback and pony rides.
• Dog owners are welcome to bring their pet on a leash and explore the premises.
• A cycling trail for kids
• Moderate to more challenging hiking trails around the farm.
• Perfect setting for picnics or family day trips.
• Hooves and Gardens hosts plenty of diverse activities for children and families. Find out more on social media.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
• Please note that Hooves and Gardens is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
• Wednesday and Thursday opening hours are from 11:0017:00.
• Hooves and Gardens will now also be open on Friday evenings, launching special themed nights such as Soft Jazz Night, Spoken Word & Poetry, Quizzes etc. Do check it out! Doors will open from 18:00-21:30.
• Saturday and Sunday opening hours are from 09:00-17:00.
• Stay in the loop for upcoming events and announcements on the social media platforms: @Hooves & Gardens @hoovesandgardensnam
Book
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conference at Popa Falls Resort
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Elevate your business travel with the NWR NAMLEISURE CORPORATE CARD!
Enjoy exclusive discounts on accommodation and activities, ranging from 50% for Namibian to 10% for international cardholders. With a validity of three years and easy renewal, it’s tailored for businesses with a minimum group size of 10. Experience convenience, savings, and unparalleled benefits for your corporate outings.
Walk through the city of Windhoek
Nestled in the heart of Namibia, Windhoek is a vibrant and culturally diverse city that offers a unique blend of fascinating history, captivating landscapes and warm hospitality. As the capital and largest city of Namibia, Windhoek serves as the gateway to this extraordinary country. Whether you're exploring the city's rich history, immersing yourself in its diverse cultures, or venturing into the surrounding natural wonders, Windhoek has something for every traveller.
CHRISTUS KIRCHE
To delve into Windhoek's past, begin your journey at the Christus Kirche. The Evangelical Lutheran Church is one of the city’s most striking landmarks, built from local sandstone and completed in 1910. Its blend of the neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau styles is a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. The stained glass windows were donated by Kaiser Wilhelm II.
INDEPENDENCE MEMORIAL MUSEUM | TINTENPALAST | SUPREME COURT
Adjacent to this iconic Windhoek landmark is the golden Independence Memorial Museum. After visiting this museum, dedicated to the Namibian liberation struggle, head to the nearby historic buildings like the Tintenpalast (Ink Palace), which houses Namibia's parliament. This is Namibia’s original Government Building, completed in 1914 in time for the first session of the Landesrat. Since then it has housed a series of successive administrations and governments. After independence it was renovated to accommodate the Namibian Parliament. The statues in front of the National Assembly honour three Namibian nationalists who campaigned for the country’s independence: Chief Hosea Kutako (1870 - 1970), Kaptein Hendrik Witbooi (1906 - 1978) and Reverend Theophilus Hamutumbangela (1917 - 1990). Nearby, the Supreme Court is an interesting architectural sight.
NAMIBIA CRAFT CENTRE | PENDUKA CRAFT VILLAGE
Windhoek's cultural diversity is celebrated through its vibrant festivals and markets. The Namibia Craft Centre is a haven for art enthusiasts or those looking for something authentically Namibian to take home. It offers a vast collection of traditional arts and crafts created by local artisans. Here, you can witness the intricate craftsmanship of handmade jewelry, textiles and woodcarvings, while directly supporting
the talented individuals who create them. There are plans to move the centre to the Alte Feste during 2025. For a taste of Namibian cuisine and the lively atmosphere of an informal market, visit the Penduka Craft Village, where you can sample delicious local delicacies and purchase unique souvenirs.
WINDHOEK RAILWAY STATION
The historical Windhoek Railway Station, built in 1912/1913, is another worthwhile sight to visit. In front of the building is a narrow-gauge locomotive, and on the first floor is the TransNamib Railway Museum.
ART & THEATRES
The National Art Gallery of Namibia is well worth a visit to see the Permanent Collection established and owned by the Arts Association Heritage Trust, which features historical and contemporary Namibian art. Next door is the National Theatre of Namibia, and opposite the Namibia Scientific Society, where a wide selection of authoritative publications on the country published by the Society can be purchased.
STATE HOUSE
Up the hill on Robert Mugabe Avenue (on the right) is the former State House, a renovated version of the original house occupied by the former South West African administrators.
KATUTURA
Explore the lively suburb of Katutura on a Windhoek City Tour for an authentic glimpse of everyday life in Namibia. Join a guided tour to learn about Katutura’s history, including its role in the struggle for independence, and interact with the friendly residents.
JOE'S BEERHOUSE
No visit to Windhoek is complete without experiencing its vibrant nightlife or array of restaurants. Head to Joe's Beerhouse, a legendary establishment known for its warm ambiance, delicious local cuisine and an extensive selection of Namibian beers.
Find more Namibia travel inspiration at www.thisisnamibia.com
Follow @thisis_namibia on Facebook and instagram for extraordinary Namibia travel stories.
inspired
If
you can’t beat them, join them
Iwas recently introduced to a new app called Birdle – think Wordle, but for birds. It’s a daily puzzle where you guess the bird of the day, and it’s surprisingly addictive. Every time that little notification pops up, I drop what I’m doing and dive into bird names and clues, trying to get the answer in as few guesses as possible. It’s nerdy, I know. But it reminded me just how much joy birding has brought into my life and how it all began quite by accident.
Years ago, I joined an overland trip from Namibia all the way to Uganda. We drove in a six-vehicle convoy through Namibia, Zambia, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, and Uganda. There were fourteen of us, and ten were hardcore birders. They were the kind of people who stop mid-sentence or mid-drive because they spotted something fluttering in the distance. Birding was the common language of the group, and it was happening all the time. At first, I felt like an outsider, mildly irritated by the frequent stops and excited calls of “lifer!” But very quickly, I realised: if you can’t beat them, join them.
I didn’t even have a bird book. Everyone else had their Robert’s guide in hand, carefully marking new sightings in pencil next to the species name, noting the date and location. I borrowed a little notebook and started writing down the names as they helped me identify what I was seeing. When we finally got back to Windhoek, I found my grandfather’s old Robert’s guide in the bookshelf and used that to start building my own lifer list. The book was so outdated that many of the bird names had since changed, which made it quite the puzzle, but I stuck with it. Eventually, I upgraded to a photographic bird guide, and my birding journey officially took off.
Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to learn from some of the best, including Pompie Burger, who writes the birding pages for our Travel Namibia magazine. Editing his work, and even tagging along on a few of his birding trips, taught me how birding
transforms the way you experience nature. A trip to Etosha becomes so much more than ticking off elephants and lions. You start noticing weavers, rollers, hornbills… and the list grows.
Birding doesn’t have to be serious. It doesn’t have to be “for experts.” It’s for anyone who’s curious about the world around them.
Some people might think it’s lame or nerdy. But honestly? Birding is one of the most rewarding, relaxing, and unexpectedly exciting things you can do in nature. So download Birdle, grab a pair of binoculars, and join the club. I promise it’s not boring. It’s brilliant.
Elzanne McCulloch
Birdin’ in the Zambezi
Birdle App
SAVOUR THE FINER THINGS IN LIFE WITH BRANDEFYN
BRANDEFYN
In a world where every second is scheduled and every moment measured, true luxury lies in the pause. Brandefyn invites you to reclaim it. More than just a brandy, it’s an invitation to slow down, savour what matters, and embrace a lifestyle defined by elegance, intention, and quiet confidence.
More Than a Drink, a Lifestyle
Brandefyn is not simply a spirit, it's a statement. Distilled in traditional copper pot stills and aged with care, its bold yet balanced character is layered with notes of warm oak, spice, and rich fruit. Its minimalist bottle reflects its essence: refined, timeless, unapologetically distinctive. This is the drink of those who value tradition, character, and quality, a true celebration of craftsmanship, heritage, and sophistication.
Sip It Your Way
Neat on the rocks, in a cocktail. Brandefyn adapts to your rhythm. Its deep amber hue, velvety mouthfeel, and lingering warmth make it a perfect companion for intimate dinners, spirited gatherings, or reflective moments. Every sip is a reminder that life’s finest pleasures are often the simplest, rich, intentional and beautifully unhurried.
Perfect Pairings
With 43% ABV and commanding depth of flavour, Brandefyn is designed to elevate the experience. Pair it with grilled meats, aged cheeses, or indulgent desserts like dark chocolate or salted caramel tart. The aroma of oak and spice lingers as its smooth finish enhances each bite. This is not just a pairing, it's a partnership.
Redefining Tradition
Crafted by women who bring a fresh perspective to an age-old spirit, Brandefyn challenges convention and reimagines tradition. Elegant, strong, sophisticated proof that mastery knows no gender. Bold yet balanced, confident without pretension, it signals the beginning of a new era in brandy.
Press Pause.Pour a Glass
Savour the finer things with Brandefyn a spirit for those who drink with purpose, passion, and uncompromising taste.
Lessons from the Luddites in the Age of AI
While many of us spent a lot of time last month staring at the chimney of the Sistine Chapel to see what colour smoke would come forth from it, and in so doing, find out whether or not a new Pope had been chosen, we should all perhaps be spending a bit more time thinking of the smoke that rose from the 19th-century factories that were set alight by the Luddites.
For years we have been taught that the Luddites were a group of backwards criminals who refused to accept technology and, because of this, went on a rampage to destroy machinery at textile mills. History, though, as explained in the foreword to The 1619 Project, is fluid and is “shaped by the perspectives, biases and interpretations of historians and the broader cultural context”.
Thanks to new historical insights and the re-examining of the story of the Luddites, we have been able to learn that they were not anti-technology. In fact, many of them were highly skilled operators of the machines that, in some cases, had been in use for at least 200 years before their “revolution” began. What history now tells us is that the Luddites did not rebel against the technology itself but the fact that certain unscrupulous factory owners made use of it to circumvent labour practices. Rather than the indiscriminate attacking of textile mills we were taught about many years ago, Kevin Binfield, the editor of the 2004 collection Writings of the Luddites, says: “They confined their attacks to manufacturers who used machines in what they called ‘a fraudulent and deceitful manner’ to get around standard labour practices.”
Founder Tamay Besiroglu has previously argued in a research paper that “AI automation could accelerate global economic growth by about an order of magnitude, akin to the economic growth effects of the Industrial Revolution”, but many remain concerned. Based on the current levels of inequality and the skewed distribution of resources the world already faces, even if automating everything does all its champions say it will, how can we be sure that this will not, once again, simply benefit the few? (It would also require a complete rethink of social, political and economic theory – but that is maybe a bit too “heavy” to tackle in an in-flight magazine.)
Back to the Luddites then. Richard Conniff, writing in the Smithsonian magazine, says: “People of the time recognised all the astonishing new benefits the Industrial Revolution conferred, but they also worried… that technology was causing a ‘mighty change’ in their ‘modes of thought and feeling’.” So too, we can recognise all the “astonishing new benefits” that AI can bring to the world, but we need to also be aware of the dangers.
AI automation could accelerate global economic growth by about an order of magnitude, akin to the economic growth effects of the Industrial Revolution.
“At the time of the Luddites,” Kyle Chayka writes in The New Yorker, “many hoped the subpar products [being produced at the mills targeted for attack] would prove unacceptable to consumers or to the government. Instead, social norms adjusted.” Can the same be said about the growing acceptance of so-called “AI Art” – people proudly proclaiming that they are using tools like ChatGPT to write everything from job applications to thankyou cards or even condolence messages, or the fact that there are books “written” by AI available to buy online?
Conniff perhaps sums it up better than I can in the closing paragraph of his article:
While ultimately unsuccessful, at the time of the Luddite uprising the cost of living was rising, inequality was increasing, markets were being flooded by cheap, increasingly massproduced products, and rather than the introduction of technology leading to improved working conditions and increased leisure time, the benefits were largely going to only a few.
It was for these reasons that I immediately thought of the Luddites when I read a story about a new startup called Mechanize which aims to “create the tools, data and digital environments needed to train AI agents that can do any job humans can”.
“Getting past the myth and seeing their [the Luddites’] protest more clearly is a reminder that it’s possible to live well with technology – but only if we continually question the ways it shapes our lives. It’s about small things, like now and then cutting the cord, shutting down the smartphone and going out for a walk. But it needs to be about big things, too, like standing up against technologies that put money or convenience above other human values.”
Until next time, enjoy your journey.
David Bishop
Developing a love for maths –starting young!
As part of our efforts to improve foundational education, we are happy to have been invited to partner with the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture and Kumon Institute of Education for the foundational numeracy project in Namibia. The project is undertaking an assessment of the status of maths skills at different phases in learners’ and young people’s lives and putting in place a model based on the Kumon Method to develop maths and study skills from a young age.
For this project, Grade 3 learners work on tablets with Kumondeveloped material to build maths knowledge and study practices. Kumon has provided participating schools with the needed resources, and our role is to work side by side with educators to identify challenges and observe how the gradual introduction of the Kumon approach is received in classrooms, providing support along the way. Mathematics, the focus subject, is especially relevant because numeracy is one of the main areas our ECD department emphasises in its training.
As a data analyst and mathematician by profession, I helped facilitate the assessments and identified key areas where learners faced difficulties. These insights will guide Kumon, the ministry and the team at DWN as we all work to address these challenges and learn from the Kumon Method, reflecting on how it can become a natural part of the classroom experience. One of the most exciting and much-needed components of this method is that it aims to help learners develop a positive relationship with maths, so it is no longer seen as a brick wall or an obstacle.
The Kumon Method is a globally recognised learning approach designed to help children reach their full potential. Used by over 3 million learners in more than 60 countries, it promotes
independent learning through daily self-paced worksheets. Learners start at a comfortable level based on their actual ability – not their school grade – to build confidence, concentration and fluency before progressing to more advanced concepts.
Kumon helps learners master everything, from basic maths to complex problem-solving. The method values understanding over speed and encourages children to reason through problems, strengthen mental calculation skills and build lasting confidence. Through individualised instruction and expert support, learners also develop the ability to study independently, a skill that supports long-term academic success and a lifelong love of learning. The method also
focuses on showing the teachers how to best support learners and give them tailored guidance, instruction and means of motivation.
This is well aligned with the work done by DWN, as foundational numeracy is one of the main areas promoted in DWN’s early learning programme. Foundational numeracy – the ability to understand and use basic maths – is essential for learning and daily life. It includes skills like counting, knowing numbers, adding and subtracting, and recognising shapes and patterns. Simple activities like counting toys, matching socks or measuring while cooking help build these skills. Early maths confidence supports future learning and smart everyday choices. DWN develops materials, trains teachers and educarers on play-based learning, and demonstrates to parents the interventions needed to support early learning and foundational skills.
I still remember my own journey with maths in school. There were moments when I struggled and fell behind, especially when lessons moved too quickly or skipped over the basics. What made the biggest difference was when I finally had a teacher who helped me build confidence by going back to simple foundations. That experience shaped my love for maths and made me see how powerful early support can be. I believe that many children who fear maths simply have not had the chance to experience it in a way that makes sense to them. The Kumon approach offers that chance by meeting each learner and child where they are and guiding them forward step by step.
To track the progress of the Kumon in schools programme, DWN will continue conducting regular debriefs with teachers and observing learners in classrooms to see how well the Kumon Method is being integrated into these traditional Namibian settings. We are also exploring what challenges may arise with this method, whether teachers are actively implementing it and how they feel about the Kumon way as a sustainable solution.
It has been an empowering experience to help introduce young learners to a version of maths that is joyful and not stressful. Seeing their confidence grow reminds me why this work matters. This project makes me hopeful for a future where Namibian children are no longer afraid of maths but instead see it as a tool that opens doors to opportunities, ideas and lifelong learning.
My maths mantra? “Maths isn’t about getting it right the first time; it’s about learning to see problems as puzzles and growing stronger with each try.”
Wilka Igulu
Data consultant at Development Workshop Namibia (DWN)
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in a safer world Raising strong girls
Every girl deserves to grow up in a world free from fear. Yet for far too many, that dream is shattered by the grim reality of sexual violence. It is a painful truth but one we must confront with honesty, compassion and urgency.
Sexual violence against girls, including babies, remains a global crisis. Rape culture thrives in many societies, reinforced by patriarchal systems, unequal power dynamics and social norms that excuse such behaviours. Within this toxic framework, young girls are often pressured, manipulated or forced into sexual acts – an appalling violation of their rights, dignity and bodily autonomy.
The trauma inflicted by sexual violence reaches far beyond the moment of the act. It fosters a climate of fear and mistrust, where many women feel uneasy if they or their children are around men. While we must avoid unfair generalisations, we must first prioritise the safety and wellbeing of women and girls. If something happens to you or your child, know this: the blame lies entirely with the perpetrator. It is never your or your child’s fault.
According to UNICEF, millions of girls worldwide experience sexual violence before the age of 18. These are not just statistics; they represent lives torn apart, futures disrupted and innocence lost. Survivors often bear long-lasting emotional, physical and psychological scars. Heartbreakingly, many cases go unreported due to fear, shame or a lack of trust in failing justice systems.
Protecting the girl child is not just a family issue; it is a shared, societal responsibility. When we invest in the safety and empowerment of girls, we allow them to grow up confident, capable and free. These girls become women who lead, innovate and uplift communities. Protecting girls does not just change lives; it changes the world.
Creating real change starts with education. From a young age, children should be taught about bodily autonomy, consent and personal boundaries. These lessons equip them to recognise danger, speak up and seek help. In schools, child protection policies must be actively enforced and educators trained to identify and respond to signs of abuse.
Public awareness campaigns are equally vital. Communities must be informed about how to safeguard children and support survivors. Safe spaces must be established places where victims and families can report abuse without fear of judgement or retaliation. Every case must be handled with seriousness, empathy and confidentiality. Survivors should have access to traumainformed care, both on an emotional and medical level. No one should ever be alone when facing the aftermath of abuse.
Protecting the girl child is not just a family issue; it is a shared, societal responsibility.
If you suspect a child is being abused – whether yours or someone else’s – do not wait. Speak up and seek help. Reach out to trained professionals or organisations like Sister Namibia, which supports survivors and amplifies the voices of women and girls.
Together, through education, empathy and unwavering accountability, we can build a world where every girl is safe, valued and free to thrive. When girls know their voices matter and their rights are protected, they gain the courage to rise, speak out and shape a future without fear.
Sevelinus
Kalembela
A JOURNEY TO THE WILD BEAUTY of Okonjima Nature Reserve
In Namibia’s central highlands lies the Okonjima Nature Reserve, a haven of untouched beauty. Spanning 22,000 hectares of pristine bushveld, this extraordinary reserve offers an immersive escape into nature. Just a short drive from Windhoek, Okonjima is celebrated not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its pioneering work in leopard conservation, an endeavour that draws wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.
Among Okonjima’s collection of lodges, we stayed at Plains Camp, an exclusive yet expansive retreat. With its spacious rooms and generous facilities, the camp comfortably accommodates a good number of guests without ever feeling crowded. The welcoming staff and exceptional cuisine added to the sense of comfort, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. What we were about to uncover was a truly one-of-a-kind experience, set within one of Namibia’s most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries.
FROM CATTLE TO COMFORT, CUISINE AND WILDLIFE
Okonjima’s story began in 1986, when the Hanssen family, once passionate cattle farmers, found themselves grappling with rising livestock losses to predators. As Namibia’s growing appeal as a tourism destination took hold, the Hanssens made a transformative decision to turn their farm into a game reserve. This led to the creation of the now world-renowned AfriCat Foundation, a pioneering initiative that marked the beginning of a conservation legacy that continues to flourish today.
Plains Camp, an integral part of this legacy, draws deep inspiration from the Hanssens’ cattle-farming roots. The design of the camp seamlessly blends elements of history and heritage, reflecting the spirit of Okonjima’s origins while offering the luxury and comfort of a modern safari experience. The spacious rooms are thoughtfully appointed, each featuring a private veranda that invites guests to watch wildlife meander by. Inside, the rooms are equipped with contemporary amenities, including a truly indulgent shower and a dedicated vanity area with a mirror, seat and plugs, perfect for glamming up after a day in the wild.
The true heart of Plains Camp, however, is The Barn, the camp’s central gathering place where all meals are served. It is a cosy yet vibrant hub of activity, offering a variety of seating areas spread across different levels. Whether you are curling up with a good book in a quiet corner, mingling with fellow travellers around a crackling
bonfire under the stars, or helping yourself to excellent coffee throughout the day, The Barn is the perfect spot to unwind and connect. After a day of exploration, the sparkling swimming pool offers a refreshing respite, with breathtaking views of the surrounding bush.
The culinary experience at The Barn is nothing short of exceptional. Each meal is a celebration of local ingredients, expertly crafted into unforgettable dishes. From the tangy beetroot with ginger and feta truffles to the indulgent, velvety homemade chocolate ice cream (which may just be the best you’ve ever tasted), dining here becomes an experience all its own. The food is a beautiful reflection of the land – fresh, flavourful and deeply connected to the spirit of Namibia.
Another highlight of dining at The Barn is the ever-changing wildlife backdrop. Whether it is a family of warthogs lounging in the mud, jackals traversing the landscape or masked weavers busily crafting their nests, there is always something to look out for. And then, there is the sunset, an awe-inspiring spectacle that turns the sky into a canvas of vibrant oranges, pinks and dusky purples, creating the perfect ending to an unforgettable meal.
One evening as we dined and watched an unforgettable sunset, a group of avid travellers, who had journeyed to every corner of the globe, proclaimed that Japan had been their favourite destination for years. But now, after visiting Namibia and Okonjima, this has become their new top spot. The beauty, tranquillity and profound connection to nature were so palpable that it was impossible not to feel the same.
A SAFARI FOR THE SOUL
At the heart of Okonjima Nature Reserve lies its worldrenowned leopard conservation programme. For over two decades, the reserve has been home to one of Africa’s longestrunning leopard monitoring projects. This is a place where visitors are invited to witness the mystery and majesty of one of the world’s most elusive and powerful predators, thanks to the reserve’s innovative research and the ongoing efforts of the AfriCat Foundation.
Not all of Okonjima’s leopards are collared, but those that are wear satellite collars, which give the guides a general idea of the vicinity the leopards might be in, though not their exact location. Tracking these elusive creatures requires a combination of the guides’ expert knowledge of the land,
insights into the leopards’ movements and, of course, a bit of luck.
A unique feature of Okonjima is that, over the years, the leopards have become somewhat accustomed to the presence of vehicles, allowing for rare opportunities to observe them in their natural habitat up close. If, like me, you choose to do leopard tracking as your activity of choice, you are likely to come away with an unforgettable experience and an intimate understanding of these stunning and stealthy creatures. You might even find yourself being able to identify them by their name, size or markings.
The guides at Okonjima are exceptional, sharing their profound knowledge of the land and its wildlife at every turn. Whether you are tracking a leopard, watching a chameleon elegantly cross your path or observing a Swallow-tailed Beeeater revelling in the abundance of butterflies after the rains, each moment offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world in a meaningful way. Nature here unfolds with ease, and you cannot help but feel deeply immersed in it.
The land itself is spectacular, made even more striking by the red rocks that lie beneath the green shrubbery, creating a dramatic contrast. The reserve, with its mixture of treeand-shrub savannah, riverbeds and the iconic Omboroko Mountains in the distance, is a haven for wildlife. Here you can spot anything from the rare and elusive pangolin, brown hyena and both the plains and mountain zebra to rhinos and a vibrant birdlife.
Okonjima is not just a destination; it is an experience that connects you to the very soul of Namibia’s wilderness, leaving a lasting imprint long after you have left. At Okonjima, conservation, heritage and luxury converge in perfect harmony. It is a place where the extraordinary becomes the ordinary, filled with too many unforgettable moments to name. Here, time slows down, and the spirit of Namibia, with its wild beauty and conservation legacy, becomes a part of you. I, for one, cannot wait to return and would wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Okonjima to my nearest and dearest.
Kirsty Watermeyer
First published in the Autumn 2025 issue of Travel Namibia magazine. Subscribe to Travel Namibia here: www.travelnewsnamibia.zinioapps.com/shop
The Namibia National Children’s Hearts Trust
Let’s talk Modus Operandi
The Namibia National Children's Hearts Trust plays a vital role in providing life-saving heart surgeries to children and adults in need, with a focus on congenital heart disease and other complex conditions. In partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Services, the Trust operates surgical campaigns supported by volunteer healthcare professionals throughout the year, alongside a dedicated local team that ensures successful surgeries and long-term recovery. Despite their significant impact, the Trust faces a critical challenge: a shortage of skilled staff. Read on to learn how this organisation is navigating the complexities of pediatric heart care and what more needs to be done to expand its services.
The Namibia National Children Hearts Trust, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Services, hosts surgical campaigns throughout the year to aid in bringing services to patients in need. These surgical campaigns are composed of a local team and volunteers through Little Healing Hearts. However, the local team also operates on a weekly basis throughout the year.
Campaigns are aimed at mostly addressing complex patients. Visiting teams would not be able to work if the local team did not do the groundwork. This includes the preparation of patients and stock, as well as other logistics around a successful surgery. In 2024, we operated on 70 patients. This includes children with Congenital heart disease, adults and adult rheumatic fever under 18.
Only two patients were referred to Cape Town (an arterial switch) during this period, when we didn't have an additional skilled team. When the team from Little Healing Hearts was present, we successfully performed two arterial switches and a neonatal systemic to pulmonary shunt, a complex neonatal surgery. Human Capital is critical in navigating complexity.
It is crucial to note that despite the success and impact of surgical campaigns, the care to recovery, up until discharge, is done by the local team. This is a small team that is trained in CHD. The last campaign particularly had the most complex patients, and these doctors worked from Monday to Friday. No patient is discharged before then. We work with the volunteer team and continue after they leave. This is when the stretch is felt the most.
The 70 patients served in 2024’s surgical campaigns do not include adult-acquired disease under 18 years (for example, CABG and valvular surgery). These are counted separately.
However, we face a major challenge: a shortage of skilled staff. The current team – one anaesthetist, perfusionist, and cardiologist – can only do so much in a system with limited trained support staff.
It is far more sensible to talk about multi-institutional collaborations for capacity building than emphasising campaigns, which are a single factor in the equation. The 'twinning strategy' with experienced institutions is what has developed these services worldwide. They all learn from each other’s experiences. Most well-trained individuals went to different centres, especially overseas.
“Dealing with complex systems is tough. Many people don’t have experience dealing with those. They would not have trained us to handle such because they didn’t know it either – South Africa had a far more substantial base. But they tried to expose us to what they could. And indeed they should be respected because not every trainee who finishes training has managed to start anything. It is tough, especially in these African systems where the foundation and processes are flawed! Who ends up navigating all of these things to at least do something? It is us! That is not the case anywhere else, in non-emerging countries.” – Dr Shidhika, Paediatric Cardiologist
The socio-economic fabric is beyond the reach of our scope. It is time for the country to zoom in with a laser focus on this element. Health is holistic; it is social, emotional and not merely physical.
Dr. Shidhika and her team use an echocardiography machine for diagnostic purposes and post-operatively. This is one of the NNCHT’s recent purchases, made in collaboration with the MoHSS through donations from our generous donors.
BANK DETAILS FOR DONATIONS
First National Bank
The Namibia National Children’s Hearts Trust
Account Type: Enterprise Business Account
Account Number: 64285811608
Branch Code: 282273
Bank Windhoek
The Namibia National Children’s Hearts Trust
Account Number: 8030901495
Branch: Capricorn
Branch Code: 486-372
Images by Ministry of Health and Social Services
RENEWED COMMITMENT
TO SUPPORTING NAMIBIA’S NURSES
Nurses are often the first and sometimes only point of contact for patients. They serve as caregivers, educators, counsellors and advocates, whether in public hospitals, private practices, mobile clinics or community health outposts. Nurses are instrumental in delivering everything, from maternal and child care to managing chronic illnesses and responding to emergencies. They are not just caregivers; they are pillars of the healthcare system.
Far beyond administering medication or dressing wounds, nurses provide emotional support to patients and families, promote public health awareness and serve as key agents in preventing disease outbreaks. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Namibian nurses stood on the frontlines, risking their own health to protect others.
Commemorating International Nurses Day on 12 May, Minister of Health and Social Services Dr Esperance Luvindao highlighted ongoing efforts by the ministry to respond to the challenges facing nurses, including heavy workloads and limited career advancement opportunities.
“We are currently reviewing the healthcare structure with a renewed focus on improving conditions for nurses. We’ve also invited nurses and doctors to apply for postgraduate studies, and the response has been very encouraging,” said Luvindao.
The minister added that further improvements include the rollout of new uniforms, which are expected to be delivered within the current quarter. “These,” she said, “may seem like small gestures, but they are important symbols of respect and professionalism.”
Luvindao reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in the training, retention and development of nurses, adding, “When we invest in our nurses, we invest in the health of our nation.” This year’s theme is “Our nurses. Our future. Caring for nurses strengthens the economy.” It highlights the essential role nurses play not only in delivering quality healthcare but also in driving economic growth. The message is clear: By investing in nurses’ training, wellbeing and career development, countries can build stronger, more resilient health systems and create a ripple effect of positive outcomes. Supporting nurses is not just a healthcare priority, but an economic imperative.
With Namibia’s health system striving to reach universal health coverage and meet the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), supporting nurses is no longer optional, it is essential!
Maggie Forcelledo Paz
BONES & MYTHS A PLACE of LEGENDS,
In the land where time appears to slow down, where the sea meets the sandy touch of desert dunes, lies the Skeleton Coast. It is a place both feared and revered, whose name conjures images of ancient mysteries, dramatic shipwrecks and the eerie howling of the wind. Ever since my first visit, I have been captivated by its haunting beauty. As I explored the land, a deep curiosity grew within me – a love I was surprised to discover.
Throughout history, this land has been known by many names. Sailors, who cursed its shores, dubbed it “The Gates of Hell”, for the sea was as treacherous as the land was unforgiving. Imagine, if you will, rough seas and tumbling waves, desert sands stretching as far as the eye can see along the shoreline, and a fog that swallows everything in its wake.
But do not be fooled into thinking that is all there is here. Beyond the horizon, brace yourself for the impact of beauty as it reveals itself up close.
Where Myths and Survival Collide
The Skeleton Coast, named after the remains of those who met their doom here, is a place of myth and legend. Over 1,000 vessels have become entombed in the sands, their timbers now bleached and crumbled under the weight of this harsh environment. Yet beneath the surface of this grim history lies a land of astonishing beauty and resilience.
Stretching over 500 kilometres from the Ugab River in the south to the Kunene River in the north, the Skeleton Coast is a land of extremes. Salty sea waves crash to the west, while dry, sandy dunes interspersed with rocky outcrops stretch to the east. This stark landscape provides the perfect setting for fog that rises from the sea, bringing moisture to the fauna and flora that call this land home. A herd of springbok, their bellies full with the knowledge of hidden food, moves cautiously through the dry Uniab riverbed. Ever watchful, they tread lightly, for they too know the ancient stories of the desertadapted lions that roam these sands.
The Skeleton Coast is not merely a land of desolation; it is a realm of strange, tenacious life. Lions, brown hyenas, seals and gemsbok carve out their existence in this unforgiving place, each creature finding sustenance where few others could. If you are fortunate enough, you might catch a glimpse of these survivors, but even if you do not, their stories are written in the countless footprints they leave behind in the sand.
At the Skeleton Coast National Park, nature rules in its purest form. Though the land is sparse, it is vast (16,845 square kilometres of coastal wilderness and
desert) – a realm teeming with hidden wonders. From the rare ephemeral rivers that snake through the valleys to the lichen fields that bloom in the harshest environments, this is where life defies the odds.
Shipwrecks: A Modern-Day Treasure Hunt
In this vast wilderness lies the world’s largest ship cemetery, where the bones of wrecked vessels whisper nautical tales of days gone by. One day, we set off in search of these elusive remnants, armed with nothing but maps and a sense of eager anticipation. The journey is harder than expected, for many of the shipwrecks have been swallowed by shifting sands or torn apart by relentless crashing waves. Sometimes all you find are fragments of the same vessel scattered far apart, testifying to the violent forces these ships endured when they ran aground.
It is a modern-day treasure hunt, where the thrill of discovery lies in the search itself. If you happen to pass another vehicle along the beach road, you can be sure that you will both come to a stop. With a nod and a quick exchange, you ask what treasures have been spotted along the way. Often the only way to confirm a shipwreck sighting is through the knowledge
of someone who has already uncovered one. And so, with renewed enthusiasm, each vehicle drives off in different directions, eager to lay eyes on the bones of ships that have yet to be discovered.
A Vast And Varied Landscape
For this adventure, we enter the Skeleton Coast National Park through Springbokwasser Gate, located to the east of the park. From there, we travel past Torra Bay and the Uniab River mouth, staying at Terrace Bay before heading back down the shore to exit the park through the southern Ugab Gate.
As we journey along, the scenery is striking in its desolation. At times, the road opens to sweeping views of the cold Atlantic Ocean waters crashing against the shore. During other moments, we are confronted by a landscape that speaks of ancient origins, formed millions of years ago yet still evolving today.
The Skeleton Coast is a place of contrasts, where nothing is quite as one would expect. The dunes here differ from those of the Namib, containing fewer volcanic rock fragments and more minerals like garnet and tourmaline. Along with the region’s arid climate and the weathering-resistant volcanic rocks from the Etendeka Plateau, these factors give the landscape its unique character. Another interesting fact is that the beach sand here contains up to 80% quartz.
At Torra Bay, desert dunes stretch all the way down to the shore, where soft sands provide a perfect vantage point to watch the waves roll in rhythmically.
For millions of years, currents have carried sand, gravel and larger rocks northward from the mouths of rivers. Over time, this material evolved into gravel and pebble beaches. Some of these have been left high above the current tide line, forming raised beaches (also known as marine terraces) due
to shifting sea levels. As we travel further north past Torra Bay, we see these raised gravel and pebble beaches, mostly composed of the predominant basalt rock from the eroded Etendeka Plateau. In fact, Terrace Bay takes its name from a three-metre-high marine terrace in the area.
The Magic Of Terrace Bay
Our home during our visit to the Skeleton Coast was Terrace Bay, a surprising gem along this wild coastline. While many people assume this place is purely an angler’s paradise, thanks to the abundant fish life that thrives here in one of the most productive oceanic areas in the world, we did not see a single fisherman during our stay. Instead, most visitors, like us, were drawn by the allure of this untamed land, eager to explore a corner of the world where the rhythms of nature remain unbroken. Though we came from all corners of the globe, we shared a common fascination with the Skeleton Coast – a place that stirs something deep inside all who venture here.
Terrace Bay is a fascinating little outpost, full of mystery and steeped in the remnants of its past. Once a diamond mining settlement with a checkered history, its story has evolved over time, and what really happened here is now more myth and folklore – much like many of the tales of this land. Perhaps the full story of its past is best left to the imagination. The old mine buildings, now weathered and worn, serve as a sanctuary for birds that shelter in the rusty remains of human endeavour.
This is the northernmost point for self-drive adventurers visiting the park, and here you will find beaches made up of beautiful, well-developed pebbles (also known as cobble beaches), some of which date back around 5,500 years. The Paraná-Etendeka Volcanic Province contributed significantly to the pebbles and gravel found on beaches north of the Uniab River mouth, including those at Terrace Bay. An interesting feature of these pebbles, so perfectly rounded, is that they are a clear indicator of strong wave action.
Operated by Namibia Wildlife Resorts, Terrace Bay offers simple yet cozy accommodation that captures the essence of
this rugged place. You can choose from twenty en-suite double rooms or opt for the self-catering beach chalets, perfect for larger groups looking for a more private retreat.
Here, you will also find a fuel station and a small shop stocked with necessities and mementos to remember your stay. The restaurant at Terrace Bay serves up delicious meals, and the quaint, well-visited bar is a true talking point, with every inch of its walls covered in signatures and stories from visitors who have passed through over the years.
The charm of Terrace Bay lies in its understated beauty. Modest yet endearing, it is a place where the land’s stark beauty is matched by the warm hospitality that invites you to rest before continuing your journey through this extraordinary corner of the world.
A Lasting Impression
As we leave the Skeleton Coast behind, we carry its stories with us – tales of survival against impossible odds, of the slow decay of shipwrecks and the resilience of life. My thoughts return to one of the many names this land has been given: “the land God made in anger”. But I must strongly disagree.
Those fortunate enough to witness its beauty are granted a glimpse into a forgotten world. This land is one of ancient bones and shifting sands, its stories shrouded in mystery and lost to the sands of time. It is alive with raw nature. For those who venture into its depths, the allure of the unknown calls, whispering of a world both mystical and real – a place where nature reigns supreme.
Kirsty Watermeyer
First published in the Autumn 2025 issue of Travel Namibia magazine. Subscribe to Travel Namibia here: www.travelnewsnamibia.zinioapps.com/shop
The name of our cargo box, ‘Epakete’, means package in Oshiwamb o
THE GREAT PROGRESSION: A NEW ERA OF TRANSFORMATION
As a society, we are quick to fret when we face drastic changes in our routines and the way we live. This is human nature. We fear change. We fear that which we do not understand. And let’s be honest, few of us truly understand artificial intelligence (AI). A handy tool to be sure, but also a daunting new reality. Headlines exacerbate that fear. But what if there was a more positive way of thinking about it? A recent read gave me slightly more hope and helped quell the niggling thought of a potential evil overlord in the near future – the one that makes me say “please” and “thank you” to ChatGPT when I ask it for help with a task so that when the AI apocalypse comes, I will be spared because the robots know at least I was kind to them…
As we move through 2025, the world stands at the threshold of a historic shift. This period, referred to as “The Great Progression” by technology expert Peter Leyden, signals the end of the systems and institutions built in the 20th century and the beginning of a new phase of global development. According to Leyden, the next 25 years (2025-2050) will see emerging technologies with the potential to reshape the way we live, work and govern in profound and positive ways.
A TIME OF TRANSITION
The mid-2020s represent the end of an era. Across the globe, political institutions established in the last century are being questioned and re-evaluated. At the same time, rapid advances in AI are challenging traditional ways of doing things, from education to business to governance. Leyden argues that we are entering a period of reinvention, where outdated systems give way to new structures more suited to 21st-century needs.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE COMES OF AGE
A CONVERGENCE OF TECHNOLOGIES
While AI takes centre stage, it is not the only technological force shaping the future. Leyden highlights several areas reaching critical tipping points:
• Clean energy: Innovations in solar technology and the widespread adoption of electric vehicles are making sustainable energy more viable and affordable. These developments could play a key role in reducing carbon emissions and combatting climate change.
• Bioengineering: Gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR are advancing rapidly, paving the way for new possibilities in medicine, agriculture and conservation. According to Leyden, this progress enables us to shape biology in ways that were previously unimaginable, with far-reaching implications for food security, public health and ecological sustainability.
By pushing aside the fear of the unknown and integrating it into our planning and thinking, we can make it work for us.
GLOBAL LESSONS FOR A GLOBAL FUTURE
Although Leyden’s historical framework is rooted in cycles of change in the United States, the broader pattern of societal transformation is globally relevant. Around the world, societies have undergone major shifts in response to economic upheaval, technological change or global conflict. From post-war reconstruction in Europe to political transitions across Africa, Asia and Latin America, history shows that major structural change often arises from periods of disruption. Leyden believes the world is now in such a moment.
SEIZING THE MOMENT
AI is evolving at an unprecedented pace and is already demonstrating its transformative power. The rise of generative AI, capable of producing original content and intelligent responses, is one of the most significant technological developments of our time. Leyden sees AI as a central pillar of The Great Progression, with the potential to dramatically boost productivity, create new industries and address global challenges ranging from healthcare to climate change.
Understanding this context underscores the urgency of proactive engagement. Leyden’s vision of The Great Progression is not about predicting the future but about helping us shape it. The technologies now emerging are not just tools; they are the foundations of tomorrow’s systems. If utilised wisely, they could help create a more equitable, sustainable and resilient world.
The Great Progression is an opportunity to build a future that reflects our collective hopes and ambitions. So, how can we embrace it? By pushing aside the fear of the unknown and integrating it into our planning and thinking, we can make it work for us. Join the disruption and be part of the change. Big ideas, to be sure. Let’s think about it.
Earth to Light The Alchemy of Stone
Lyrical, fluid abstraction. Curvilinear lines fall into spirals of perfect geometry. Shadows gather and leap, surfaces glimmer. Light bounces off the contoured stone, creating the illusion of movement and malleability. As the sculpture turns – some have been fixed on turntables and are gently spun by hand – a new interpretation is revealed. The sculpture itself seems to be nearly weightless, taking flight.
Earth to Light is WHUDA (Winfried Holze Urban Design Architecture) Marble Art’s first solo exhibition at the National Art Gallery of Namibia (NAGN), featuring 18 original white marble statues. Each sculpture is deliberately displayed in its own “cubicle” – partitioned off by dark green dividers in a large,
unadorned room – allowing for a slower, more meditative viewing experience. This thoughtful composition truly delivers: the particular allure of white marble in its soothing, ethereal state is all the more illuminated against the stark minimalism of the gallery’s empty space.
Architect Winfried Holze, founder of WHUDA Marble Art, recalls a moment in 2018 when, while working alone on a sculpture at an industrial site, he paused and thought to himself: “I am always working alone. Why not turn this into something bigger, something that adds value and promotes skills transfer?” That spark of inspiration led him to gradually expand his workshop, increasing its capacity and acquiring specialised Italian stone sculpting tools. Holze pressed on, placing an ad in the newspaper where he invited anyone interested in stone sculpting to join him. Only two people responded, but that did not stop them. Undeterred, they laid the foundation for a pioneering project, establishing three distinct categories of production: tourist articles (such as miniature rhinos and elephants), special commissions and their own personal artworks. Today, WHUDA Marble Art Namibia has evolved into a growing collective of emerging local visual artists, each exploring and developing their own authentic voice and style in the field of marble art.
WHUDA Marble Art is the only workshop in sub-Saharan Africa to make use of the distinctive characteristics of Namibia’s white marble stone. Winfried Holze explains: “Namibian marble is a hard, metamorphic limestone rock, which ranges from pure white to a variety of grey shades with veined patterns. Our marble is especially beautiful because the crystals within are fractionally larger than the more common Carrara marble,
giving it a mystical transparency and a glimmering effect when placed in direct sunlight, enlivening the artworks and making them very special indeed.”
The raw material is sourced from near a small town called Karibib, where the largest sub-Saharan marble deposits are found. Salvaged from the quarry, WHUDA repurposes the offcut material, or so-called “rejects”, and this is where the creative and meticulous sculpting process begins.
I am told the strength of the marble lies in its overall surface thickness. Still, some of the sculptures have been expertly chiselled until nearly transparent. Held against the light, another layer of beauty unfurls.
These locally crafted works are shifting perceptions among both local and international audiences. In Namibia, art exports are typically expected to feature abstract clay masks, wooden or bronze sculptures, as well as woven textiles. Traditionally, stone has not been a preferred medium for many artists in Namibia. However, this exhibition seeks to change that perception. It offers a bold invitation to viewers to reimagine the overlooked Namibian marble in a different light – not only to be utilised for manufacturing terrazzo floors, kitchen tiles and tabletops, but a stone with an elevated, even magnetic purpose.
“Our goal,” Holze emphasises, “is to remain deeply rooted in Namibia.” The artists are careful not to just replicate Zimbabwean marble stone art – though there is much to learn from it – but instead, to root their creations in singularly Namibian spiritualism and mysticism. While Holze continues to mentor and guide the young sculptors from the sidelines, they are encouraged to explore their own authentic expression.
During the exhibition, I am introduced to local talents Isai Alfeus and Wolradt Sithole, both students from the College of the Arts. Also featured alongside them are William Chindoko and Kambezunda Ngavee. Each sculpture on display
demonstrates the individuality and multifaceted imagination of its creator, from Alfeus’ smooth and flowing forms to Sithole’s convoluted, curved shapes. Together, these works embody the spirit of WHUDA: a collaboration of unity through the diversity of Namibian artists mastering their craft.
Future dreams
Tapping into his background as architect and urban planner, Holze’s long-term ambition is to restore art to architecture in Windhoek and brighten (in a literal sense) the cityscape into streets dotted with original white marble installations. “We as sculptors have a responsibility towards our viewers – past, present and future,” he says.
WHUDA Marble Art Namibia are now exploring ways to diversify further by creating smaller, more mobile pieces –artworks that can sit comfortably on a living room table or be easily transported abroad as decor or collectibles. Next on their horizon is Cape Town, where the same sculptures will be showcased. The aim is to allow some time for traction, fostering local engagement and building awareness, ultimately introducing Namibian marble stone art to a broader, international audience.
Local wonder
While studying Isai Alfeus’ sculpture Infinity, my mind wandered back to my first introduction to marble statues over a decade ago in Florence, Italy. I remember standing before Michelangelo’s David, his ageless gaze towering over me in sombre veneration. This classic, colossal sculpture inspired awe, no doubt, but I felt like a stranger, aloof, gingerly peering in from the margins.
This time felt tangibly different. A closer, more familiar connection; an encounter steeped in the land itself. Purely, undeniably Namibian.
Madeleen Duvenhage
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A lifeline in the Kavango: Maria’s path to resilience through WFP assistance
In the heart of Namibia’s Kavango East Region, where the rain has been elusive for years, Maria Kameya stands as a testament of resilience. At an age when most would seek rest, the 61-year-old battles daily to provide for her family. Her story is one of hardship, but also of hope, thanks to the World Food Programme’s (WFP) commodity voucher programme, funded by the United Nations’ Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF).
For years, the El Niño-induced drought has ravaged Maria’s village of Mupini, leaving the land barren and the people desperate for food. “It has been very, very hard,” Maria recalls. “To survive, I had to go to the river to fish, sell what I could, and use the little money to buy maize meal. That’s all we had to eat.” Her days were a relentless cycle of fishing, trading and struggling to stretch her earnings to feed her five grandchildren. With a daily income of only about N$20 (around US$1) from selling fish, she can barely afford the basics. “Sometimes, I had to exchange fish directly for maize meal. There was no extra money for anything else,” she explains.
The drought relief aid distributed by the government through the Office of the Prime Minister offered some relief. “We received 20 kg of maize meal and cooking oil, but it couldn’t feed the whole family,” Maria says.
Maria’s struggles extend beyond food. Like many in the village, the lack of resources means her grandchildren cannot attend school. “We couldn’t afford uniforms or stationery,” she explains. “The whole village has suffered.”
Her grandchildren, who stand quietly nearby, are a constant reminder of her responsibilities. Amidst these challenges, the WFP’s commodity voucher programme has emerged as a beacon of hope. The vouchers, which can be redeemed at
local retailers for food, have brought a measure of relief to Maria and her family. “This food has helped us a lot,” she says, her eyes lighting up. “It has fed the family and contributed to our lives. Whatever little we got has added to what we have.” With support from CERF, the WFP is working with the government of Namibia to address the impact of the drought in the regions of Kavango East, Kavango West and Omaheke. This collaborative effort targets populations facing high levels of food insecurity, particularly those classified as “IPC Phase 4 (Emergency)” and where children are at risk of malnutrition.
Through this intervention, the WFP is reaching 40,000 people with commodity food vouchers, providing families with immediate access to essential food while also supporting local markets. Additionally, the WFP is implementing a Complementary Wet Feeding Programme, which offers hot, nutritious meals to 25,000 children aged 6 months to 9 years through community-based soup kitchens. This initiative focuses on preventing malnutrition and protecting children’s health and development during this critical period.
For Maria, this programme is more than just food; it is a lifeline. It means her grandchildren can eat, and she can focus on rebuilding their lives. “We have been through so much,” she says. “But with this help, I feel there is hope.”
Maria’s story is a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of humanitarian aid. In the face of relentless drought and climatic challenges, the CERF intervention has given her a chance to dream of a better future – one where her grandchildren can thrive, and the weight of survival is a little lighter.
Theodor Uukongo
From right: Maria Kameya with her 5 grandchildren and daughter
THE BLUE SOUR PLUM TREE
Scientific name: Ximenia americana
Awoman’s hair is her crown – a source of pride, beauty and femininity. And every afro hair growth journey includes a drop of plant-based oil, whether the oil is extracted traditionally or with modern machinery.
The Sahel region stretches from West to East Africa and includes countries like Nigeria, Burkina Faso and Mali, which are known as the “shea belt” countries. These countries get the popular shea oil from the karite tree commonly known as the African shea tree. Chad extracts chebe oil from the seed of the chebe tree, but it is undebatable that the eemheke oil extracted from the seed of the blue sour plum tree is Namibia’s native afro hair growth miracle.
The deciduous sour plum tree is found in most areas within the northern and central regions of Namibia and extends through to the Zambezi Region. The leaves of the sour plum are simple, hairless, semi-succulents with ovate-oblong blades. It has a smooth, pale grey bark with white flecks. Blue sour plum trees flower from August to May, with November being the peak flowering month. Their flowers are small and greenish white – comparable to that of the bird plum – and bear stone-sized fruits that turn yellow when ripe. These fruits often appear to be blueish as they dry, hence it is commonly referred to as the blue sour plum. Unfortunately, due to land clearing for the expansion of crop fields and residential establishments, the distribution of the blue sour plum tree has become patchy over the years.
Common name: Blue sour plum
The fruits are mainly collected to be dried for the purpose of extracting cosmetic oil which is known to have skin-softening and anti-ageing properties, while it is commonly used as a haircare product. Although the preparation of the oil dates back in history prior to my generation, it is not surprising that every elder I came across has an exact preparation method, regardless of it not being a historically documented method. I have come to the succinct conclusion that it is within our African culture to master procedures, methods and recipes by heart. This is primarily how cultural intellectual property was protected: skills were passed by word of mouth, with the consent of the original founders. A slight deviation in preparation meant that it is that particular family’s unique recipe.
Times have changed, and information has become more accessible, hence there is no harm in sharing a brief process of how oil from the blue sour plum seeds is manually extracted. The hard shells of the seeds are cracked open to remove the kernels. The kernels are then roasted, crushed and boiled. Boiling the crushed seeds allows fatty acid bonds to break, changing form from solids to the liquid oil. The oil slowly separates from the solid particles which could not be broken down by the heat.
The second phase of separation is where oil is scooped from the boiling container and transferred into another container where the intense boiling continues. The oil becomes very dark and a strong, unpleasant smell indicates the readiness of the emollient oil. Experts know when it is ready. It is rather unfortunate that this hair growth oil is not something you can apply in its natural state – the scent just won’t allow you. A mixture of oils with a more pleasant scent needs to be added in order to balance the unpleasant smell. Yet, regardless of the smell, what cannot be denied is that it moisturises the scalp and the hair growth effect is miraculous.
Noticing the patchy distribution of the blue sour plum is the first step to restoring this species to its former glory, but it will take great effort. The 103 seeds of the blue sour plum which I have received from a friend are destined to be planted as trials within our communities. Today’s seedlings are tomorrow’s forests.
Agnes Shekupe Shivute
NAMIBIA CEMENTS ITS ROLE in
the global green economy
In a landmark moment for Namibia’s green industrialisation drive, the country officially marked a significant milestone by launching a first-of-its-kind carbon-neutral iron production plant in Africa, and one of the world’s first industrial facilities dedicated to zero-emissions iron production, near Arandis in the Erongo Region. Happening right here in Namibia, the HyIron Oshivela Plant –developed in just less than 12 months and constructed by Namibians – is a project run by Namibia and its international partners. Officiating at the ceremonial opening, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said: “Namibia’s continuous pledge to peace, political stability and adherence to the rule of law is a prerequisite for investment, provided that investors respect our clarion call for local beneficiation.” She also called on investors to follow and emulate the exemplary path of HyIron. “As the world turns its gaze upon Namibia today, this project positions our country as a strategic partner in the production of iron, a vital material across the automotive, energy and manufacturing sectors,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah.
HyIron is a collaborative initiative between Namibian and German firms specialising in renewable energy and engineering. It uses a carbon-neutral method, HyIron technology, to produce iron by reducing iron ore with green hydrogen in a rotary kiln. This process avoids 1.8 tonnes of CO₂ emissions for every tonne of iron produced, compared to traditional methods.
With clean energy emerging as a global advantage, Namibia is positioning itself to benefit from the growing demand for sustainably produced goods with clean energy now emerging as a global advantage. Speaking on the matter, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Natangwe Ithete, noted that countries around the world are increasingly favouring products manufactured with renewable energy sources. Ithete added that by aligning with this trend, Namibia not only ensures compliance with evolving international regulations but also gains a valuable competitive edge in global markets. “We must also remember that Namibia is highly vulnerable to climate change. While we
remain a net carbon sink, our renewable energy resources offer us a chance not only to decarbonise locally, but to support cleaner industries globally,” he added.
The project not only places Namibia on the global green hydrogen map but also exemplifies meaningful value addition locally. Facilitated by the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), the project now houses Namibia’s second-largest renewable energy power station, the largest battery energy storage system in the country and the largest electrolyser in Southern Africa. This is according to Dr Thorsten Hutter, the German ambassador to Namibia, who commended the use of Namibian engineers, technicians and workers during its development. “HyIron demonstrates that real value addition in Namibia is achievable, creating jobs, income and industrial opportunity,” said Hutter. He reiterated Germany’s commitment to remain a reliable partner for Namibia and other developing countries, saying that the two countries’ bilateral relationship is built on solidarity, cooperation and mutual development.
The European Union’s ambassador to Namibia, Ana Beatriz Martins, noted that phase two of the production will be scaled up from 15,000 to 200,000 tonnes per year with the EU and the Netherlands to join as partners, contributing €12.9 million (approximately N$258 million) in grants to Namibia’s SDG1 Fund. “At least seven European companies are seeking to invest in Namibia’s green hydrogen economy, with a prospective investment pipeline exceeding €20 billion, or N$430 billion,” Martins added.
The inauguration of the HyIron Oshivela Plant signifies a transformative step for Namibia, showcasing its capacity to integrate cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices, and positioning the country as a key player in the global green economy.
Maggie Forcelledo Paz
Images by
Namibian Presidency
Medical Rescue Africa (MRA) is Namibia’s leading fixed wing Aeromedical Evacuation company specialising in the evacuation of critically ill and injured patients across Africa, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
MRA, through Westair Aviation, has a dedicated fleet of Air Ambulance aircraft on standby which have the ability to land on unimproved airstrips as well as to operate at night and in bad weather conditions. Air crews undergo regular refresher training, and all operations comply with the highest safety and quality standards.
MRA has its own 24-hour Call Centre with trained and dedicated operators utilising state of the art equipment and aviation information technology. The Call Centre liaises with local and international Medical Aid, insurance and medical assistance companies to help facilitate and coordinate medical evacuations, and medical repatriation services.
To ensure the best possible pre-hospital treatment to patients, MRA offers a 24-hour Road Ambulance at Eros Airport for transporting patients from the Airport to the treating Hospital. The MRA Ambulance is equipped to an ICU patient care level. MRA has a standard service-level agreement with all accredited ALS Ambulance Services across Namibia for effective Road Ambulance evacuation services should the requirement be to not activate the fixed wing Air Ambulance.
MRA is led by a management team with extensive experience in medical response, evacuation and support operations.
Tel: 912 within Namibia or +264 83 339 0033
Understanding addiction
To some degree, every one of us is addicted to something, whether it is nicotine, sugar, our phones or “classical” culprits like alcohol and drugs. Addiction is a complex, chronic condition that involves compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli despite negative consequences. For many years, addiction was seen primarily as a moral failing or lack of willpower. However, modern research has reshaped our understanding, emphasising that addiction is a brain-based condition influenced by genetic, psychological, environmental and social factors. Destigmatising addiction is essential to improving access to treatment, promoting recovery and supporting those affected.
Let’s begin by understanding addiction as a health issue rather than a character flaw. When individuals are judged or shamed for their addiction, they are less likely to seek help or admit they have a problem. This can lead to delayed treatment, poor health outcomes and social isolation. On the other hand, a compassionate word, assistance in seeking help and support during relapse events can contribute to an overall improvement in the affected person’s health.
Furthermore, understanding the function of addiction involves looking at its impact on the brain’s reward and self-control systems. “What is the substance good for?” seems like a madhatter’s question, but it is an essential question nevertheless. If the function of the substance is understood, it can be easier to find alternatives for the substance. On a somatic level, tolerance, cravings and a decreased ability to experience pleasure from non-addictive activities reinforce a destructive cycle – a problem best tackled with patience, empathy and the help of professionals.
Treatment for addiction should be holistic and tailored to the individual. It often begins with detoxification, where the
body clears itself of substances under medical supervision. But detox is only the first step. Long-term recovery depends on continued therapeutic support.
Psychotherapy helps patients identify and change harmful thinking patterns and supports individuals in finding their own reasons for change. Group therapy and self-help groups provide peer support and accountability.
Medication-assisted treatment can be particularly effective for substance addiction. Some medications may be essential to facilitate a safe detox process and can help to manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
Additionally, social support, stable housing, employment assistance and addressing co-occurring mental health conditions are crucial parts of recovery. Relapse is not a sign of failure but a common part of the process that signals a need for adjusted treatment strategies.
By promoting understanding, reducing stigma and expanding access to evidence-based treatments, society can better support individuals struggling with addiction and empower them towards lasting recovery. Seeking help does not show weakness; on the contrary, it is a heroic act for both patient and his/her loved ones!
Dr Daleen de Lange Psychiatrist
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Efundja brings fish and money
They say every bad situation has an unforeseen advantage. This adage proves to be true for the areas in northern Namibia which were hit by the seasonal flood waters (locally known as the “efundja”) at the beginning of March. Since then, until the end of May, affected villagers and community members have been involved in fishing, catching the local freshwater catfish which comes with the efundja.
Efundja typically occurs when heavy rains in central Angola fill the Kunene River, which forms the border between northern Namibia and southern Angola. The water body spills into Angola’s southern province of Cunene and the central northern regions of Namibia, such as Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana and parts of Oshikoto.
This year, like in the past, the efundja provided some consolation for those in affected areas. This came in the form of fish. Every time it floods, hordes of people cast their nets and fishing lines at strategic places where the flood water flows. The fish get caught in the fishing nets and on hooks attached to the lines.
Villagers and community members sell most of the fish at fishing sites or urban centres such as towns or informal settlements. This provides them with an income they would otherwise not have if it were not for the efundja.
with others on high ground somewhere, while the regional government takes care of them.
“It is boring in the tents and catching fish provides me with some sort of activity while at the same time I am earning an income,” the 35-year-old says. His fish bundles contain between five and 20 fish and can cost anything between N$20 and N$100, depending on the size.
Kombinga does not work in isolation. His colleagues are men, women and even children. According to him, most of them had gone on the day of our conversation to meet the regional governor of Ohangwena, Sebastian Ndeitunga, and his delegation, who had come to pay them a visit at their camp in a helicopter after assessing the situation from the air. Kombinga had opted to stay behind and man his nets.
Catching fish provides me with some sort of activity while at the same time I am earning an income.
At the same time, it means no more spending money on meat and related products for the duration of the efundja until the water has subsided. The efundja fish also provides many families with a good source of protein.
In the Oshikango constituency of Ohangwena Region, several nets were cast next to a bridge on a gravel road between Oshikango and Edundja. Under this bridge, powerful waves of water pass with fish. And it is here where a man called Kombinga has cast his nets.
He sells the fish at a nearby informal settlement. He tells our team he is one of the people displaced by the flood. The government relocated him, and he is housed in a tent
“Of course it’s good. Like today, I had six bundles, and I have already sold four. Only two are left.” He notes that on a good day, one could make N$300 or more.
Kapana seller Victoria Nehemiah is Kombinga’s most important customer. She owns a home shop and sells most traditional alcoholic brews enjoyed in informal settlements. After having one too many, her clients always demand pap served with efundja fish, a tasty and hot soup. “They love it, and that’s why Kombinga has to come here every morning to sell fish to me to prepare for my customers.”
When asked if he wishes the efundja would return again next year, considering the monetary benefits he gets from selling the fish, he gives a loud and long whistle as if casting away an evil spell and says: “No, no, no, no. The damage it does to the crops and our homes is too much. Also, it blocks our roads and messes up everything. Of course, the fish business is good, but overall, I hate it.”
Marx Itamalo
A monthly wrap-up of News Worth Knowing
Namibia eyes billion-dollar fish waste innovation opportunity
Namibia’s fishing industry is setting its sights on a multibillion-dollar opportunity by transforming fish waste into high-value products — from Omega-3-rich hake liver oil to collagen-based cosmetics and even medical treatments.
According to fisheries expert and Namibia Ocean Cluster associate, Dave Russell, what is currently discarded at sea could form the foundation of a new, job-creating sector focused on health, wellness, and industrial applications. Russell noted that Namibian vessels presently discard heads, guts, and skins at sea, despite their considerable potential in secondary industries.
“Beyond industrial uses, fish skins are being used internationally for medical treatments. In countries like Brazil, tilapia skins are applied to burn wounds and chronic ulcers. They assist with skin regeneration and reduce healing time,” he noted. As such, he stressed the need for collective action through platforms like the Namibia Ocean Trust to drive product innovation and industrial transformation.
Namibia’s first salmon farming project secures N$41m in equity financing
The African Aquaculture Company (AAC) has secured N$41 million (€2 million) in equity financing to launch the first phase of its salmon farming venture off the coast of Lüderitz. The funding is backed by a strategic partnership between Namibian and Norwegian investors, with an option to scale up total equity financing to N$123 million (€6 million).
AAC plans to adopt cutting-edge Norwegian aquaculture technology to develop environmentally responsible salmon farming operations.
“This state-of-the-art operation will utilise the cold, nutrientrich waters of the Benguela Current, with ideal temperatures ranging from 10 to 16 degrees Celsius,” he said.
The project is expected to significantly benefit Namibia’s economy, with forecasts suggesting the creation of over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs upon reaching full production.
Namibia’s hospitality sector sees 41.7% rise in room occupancy in March 2025
Namibia’s hospitality industry showed strong signs of recovery in March 2025 as the Rooms Occupancy Rate Index surged by 41.7%, on a monthly basis, rebounding from a contraction of 14.9% in February.
“A total of 60,369 rooms were available nationwide in March, of which 26,725 rooms (44.3%) were sold. In contrast, only 15,546 rooms (31.2%) were sold out of 49,772 available in February,” said NSA.
The Bed Occupancy Rate Index reflected similar trends, registering a 38.7% increase in March, recovering from a 21.1% decline in February. Year-on-year, however, the index declined by 17.6%.
“Across all accommodation types, bed occupancy increased compared to February. Guest houses led with 49.3%, followed by lodges at 39.2%, tented lodges at 36.2%, hotels at 33.0%, and rest camps at 20.0%,” said NSA.
Women representation lagging in financial sector
Executive for corporate affairs at Hollard Namibia and Chairperson of the Namibia Women in Finance and Insurance (NamWifi) Council Grace Mohamed says the financial sector is lagging behind in female representation.
“We are endeavouring to demystify the illusion, because the chances of getting a lady to be appointed as a board director of a financial institute are low. There are no ladies that can sit on the board of an insurance company, because the few that are there are already conflicted,” she said.
She said the Namibia Women in Finance and Insurance Summit (NWFIS) aims to drive transformative change within the sector for more female leaders to be included in the
finance, insurance and investment space so that it can mirror the public sector.
NAMIFA’s Deputy CEO Erna Motinga says the Namibia Women in Finance and Insurance Summit, which is targeting 322 attendees and over 100 virtual delegates, will unveil a mentorship programme, particularly for young women in the financial and insurance space who will be matched with a reputable coach that the summit will finance.
Namibia’s trade deficit widens by N$700 million in March Namibia’s trade deficit widened by N$700 million in March 2025, driven largely by a sharp increase in petroleum oil imports, the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) has reported. According to the NSA’s latest trade bulletin, imports of petroleum oils surged by N$999 million from the previous month, contributing to a trade deficit of N$2.1 billion in that category alone.
Petroleum oils accounted for 20% of all imports during the month, sourced predominantly from India, Oman, and Italy. Namibia exported goods valued at N$10.1 billion in March, a slight decline of 0.4% from February.
Precious stones (diamonds) emerged as Namibia’s top export in March, making up 20.1% of total exports and destined mainly for Botswana and the United States.
“Fish came second, accounting for 13.6% of total exports, destined mainly for the Spanish, Zambian and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) markets. Non-monetary gold occupied the third position, accounting for 12.4% of total exports, solely destined for South Africa. Uranium ranked fourth, accounting for 11.0%, with the commodity mainly destined for China and France,” the NSA said.
The Southern African Customs Union (SACU) remained Namibia’s primary export destination, receiving 38.5% of the country’s total exports for the month.
Meanwhile, the country’s import bill climbed to N$12.8 billion in March, a 5.2% increase from the N$12.1 billion recorded in February.
Once a Girl Guide, Always a Girl Guide
Celebrating World Thinking Day with Namibia’s Future Leaders
Under the warm northern sun, the Old Ongwediva Girl Guides Centre came alive on 3 May 2025 with laughter, colour, and purpose. Delayed out of respect for the passing of Founding Father Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, this year’s World Thinking Day celebration was no less spirited — and perhaps even more meaningful. Girls and women from across Namibia gathered in a show of unity, resilience, and pride in a global sisterhood that continues to shape generations.
Among them was Aili Kanzi, a proud alumna of the Girl Guides and a current member of the FlyNamibia team. For Aili, attending the celebration was like returning home. “The atmosphere at the Ongwediva Girl Guide Centre was truly beautiful and refreshing,” she said. “There was a strong sense of sisterhood and unity — it felt warm, homely, and familiar, like being part of a larger family.”
At the heart of the event was the keynote address by Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia and Patron of the Girl Guides Association. Her presence set an inspiring tone, and her words struck a chord with everyone present. “What stood out most,” Aili shared, “was the deep pride and commitment she still carries for the Girl Guide promise — even after all these years. Despite her demanding career, she continues to live by the values of Guiding. It was a reminder that once a Girl Guide, always a Girl Guide.”
President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s speech echoed the foundational principles of the movement: love of God, love of our country, the protection of others, and staying true to the Girl Guide rules. For many, including Aili, it was a grounding moment that reignited their belief in what it means to be a Guide.
The celebration wasn’t only about speeches — it was alive with singing, drama, and joyful performances. “Watching the girls perform brought back so many memories from my childhood,” Aili said. “It reminded me of the excitement and teamwork that defined those early years. It was fun, meaningful, and made me feel like I was right back in my Brownie uniform.”
But beyond the nostalgia, Aili stressed the ongoing importance of World Thinking Day. “It strengthens the Girl Guides movement — locally and globally. We honour our founders, reflect on our values, and unite with Guides around the world. It builds solidarity and connection, and often helps support communities starting or growing their own programmes.”
Today, in a world where young women still face barriers, the Girl Guides movement plays a crucial role. “It gives Namibian girls life skills, confidence, and the tools to lead,” Aili said. “It nurtures future leaders who think critically, act ethically, and stand tall in any room.”
Her message to potential members or supporters is clear: “Do it. What might start as a simple step can become one of the most meaningful journeys of your life.”
In a world that urgently needs more empathy, strength, and ethical leadership, the Girl Guides are quietly — and powerfully — lighting the way.
Because Girl Guides don’t just change girls. They create women who change the world.
Debmarine Namibia unveils landmark exhibition at Lüderitz Maritime Museum
Debmarine Namibia proudly marked a significant milestone recently, unveiling its first permanent exhibition at the Lüderitz Maritime Museum. This initiative represents the company’s commitment to public education and awareness, with a particular focus on Namibia’s thriving marine diamond industry. The exhibition launch follows the museum’s official opening in September 2024, led by former President Nangolo Mbumba.
Lüderitz Waterfront Development Company CEO Fluksman Samuehl said the exhibition fits in with the museum’s goal of promoting marine awareness and education. “This exhibition is meant to attract visitors and tourists and provide education to the Namibian youth. There are people across all corners of Namibia who have never seen or been to an ocean.”
Speaking at the event, Debmarine Namibia’s Chief Executive Officer, Willy Mertens, emphasised the exhibition’s role in fostering curiosity and ambition among visitors. “Our marine diamond operations embody innovation, resilience, and sustainable progress. This exhibition showcases our work and highlights the significance of natural diamonds – rare, beautiful, and a testament to nature’s extraordinary processes.”
Mertens further elaborated on the broader mission of the exhibition, which extends beyond showcasing achievements to educating and inspiring the next generation. “We aim to instil a deeper appreciation for sustainability, responsible sourcing, and preserving our natural heritage. The maritime
industry’s future lies in today’s youth’s hands, and we hope this exhibition ignites their passion for science, engineering, and exploration.”
The CEO also acknowledged the challenges facing the diamond industry, including geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, and the growing presence of lab-grown diamonds. He reaffirmed Debmarine Namibia’s dedication to advocating for the authenticity and enduring value of natural diamonds, not merely as precious gemstones, but as symbols of history, craftsmanship, and natural wonder.
With this exhibition, Debmarine Namibia continues to shape the narrative of marine diamond exploration while inspiring future generations to appreciate and engage in the maritime industry.
The unveiling was attended by key stakeholders, including Dr. Angel Tordesillas, Chairperson of the Lüderitz Waterfront Development Company, Ambassador Theresia Samaria, Alex Clive Gawanab, Group Chief Executive Officer Seaflower Group Of Companies (Fishcor), Luderitz Town Council Councillors, representatives from Namibian Navy, and the museum’s curator, among others.
Sh a nizia D a Cunha The making of a star
An award-winning model, rising fashion designer and a beauty queen with purpose, Shanizia Da Cunha is the definition of a triple-threat star.
The young star seemingly has it all going for her. After stepping onto the arts scene with her debut fashion collection as a College of the Arts student in 2023, Shanizia quickly began to carve a name for herself as one of Namibia’s young stars to watch. The collection, a solid debut that showcased her artistic flair and love for bold tailoring, introduced her brand, Nagraza, to the world.
Two years later, Shanizia is still pursuing her creative dreams at full speed. She recently walked the ramp at Milan Fashion Week and stepped back into pageantry as Miss Aura Namibia. I recently caught up with her to chat about where it all started, what it is like living out her dreams, pursuing multiple creative paths and where she sees herself in the future.
Early days
Shanizia’s official introduction to fashion came when she showcased her first collection at the MTC Windhoek Fashion Week and Katutura Fashion Week in 2023. Her brand, Nagraza, was initially influenced by her coming of age, a perfect nod to the phase she entered into as a newly qualified designer. “The more I matured, the more it became classy and feminine,” she says. The brand is also heavily influenced by Shanizia’s personal style, which she describes as “classy chic”.
Nagraza primarily caters to ready-to-wear pieces for women but makes the odd exception for special clients like her equally talented older brother, Adriano Visagie. Adriano has been a big cheerleader of hers and can often be spotted wearing tailormade Nagraza pieces. “I come from a close-knit family. They were the ones who spotted my gift early on during my childhood, and helped lay a foundation for me,” she says. This support started when she was a little girl, with her mother investing in her passion by buying her a toy sewing machine as a child – just one of many acts of support which inspired Shanizia to fearlessly follow her dreams.
Shanizia draws inspiration from a world-renowned fashion icon: “I am a Chanel girl! My graduate collection was inspired by the tweed suit created by Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, also known as Coco Chanel. The collection was more modern and fun, each piece was suitable for different events and personalities,” she says. As a designer, Shanizia is drawn to heavy structures and rough shapes, which she then juxtaposes by creating something soft and feminine.
“There’s nothing more satisfying and heartwarming than seeing my clients light up and glow when they come for their first
Photo credits: Claudia Bianco
Photography; Alex Shootings; MP Studios Namibia; Shot by Andimba Mika
fittings. Being part of helping women of all ages and body types feel good about themselves brings me great joy. It’s confirmation that I’m on the right path.”
When asked about what makes her approach unique, she answers: “As a designer, I always understood what emotion or look the model wearing the garment should have. When I create my sketches or a collection, I can assess the flow of movement on the garment when the model moves or picture the type of model suitable for each look. It definitely brings everything together and complements the collection itself.”
Taking the world stage
When she is not creating beautiful garments, Shanizia is a model and pageant queen representing Namibia with class. She recently did so in Italy, where she took a leap of faith that landed her at Milan Fashion Week. “As an unsigned model, I had to book castings by myself. I was strategic about it and took a leap of faith. I went for local designers, some well-known in Milan, and some only starting out, graduating from fashion design school. And I was cast successfully! I am hoping for the opportunity to return with even bigger brands next time,” she says, describing her once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk the biggest fashion stage in the world.
Gushing about the experience, she adds: “Milan itself was absolutely breathtaking! I would love to visit again and explore the rest of the towns and villages, but during the summer, of course! The people, the food and the fashion are unreal. Milan truly is the fashion capital of the world. I admire their attention to detail in terms of fashion. The designers I walked with definitely respect and own their craft. They are unapologetic and go for looks and designs that are daring yet creative.”
Best of both worlds
Whether dressing models or being dressed by other designers, Shanizia is passionate about fashion in general, but describes the thrill of walking on the runway as “the most addictive part”
of it all. “You feel nervous yet excited, powerful and confident. All these emotions at once. I’ve done this so many times, but the feeling never gets old.”
She notes that being a designer has given her the edge when modelling, as she understands what drives designers. “I do understand that a designer has a creative concept that they want to execute as precisely as possible, with that said, being rejected as a model for a certain look or collection shouldn’t be taken personally. It’s not about you as the model, but about what completes the look. As a designer, one already has a complete picture of what one wants to achieve and how the garment should be displayed to the audience,” she says.
Shanizia is no stranger to the modelling and pageant world. She participated in numerous pageants, including Miss Teen Namibia in 2019, Miss ACE Model International 2020, Miss Face of Namibia 2021 and is the current Miss Aura Namibia titleholder. Her modelling career came full circle when she was awarded Best Female Model of the Year at the Simply You Magazine Lifestyle and Fashion Awards in 2024.
Bigger
dreams
Shanizia has been passionate about giving back to her community since her teens. Together with her family, she gives back to communities in southern Namibia through their local church and has no plans of slowing down on these initiatives.
As for her design work, Shanizia’s biggest dream right now is to own a retail store where Nagraza can be available for sale. “I’d like to contribute to our economy and create employment for Namibian youth. I enjoy travelling, so I hope that continues to be part of my life. Perhaps also to start a modelling school and share what I’ve learned during my modelling journey to aspiring models,” the always optimistic beauty says.
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Artwork title: Freedom
The Inner Worlds of Jakobina Gideon
Jakobina Nashikwele Gideon is quietly and powerfully working to reshape the contours of Namibia’s contemporary art landscape. Based in Windhoek, she is a multidisciplinary artist, curator, and community organiser whose work explores new ways of producing, experiencing, and sharing art in Namibia today. Whether she’s drawing meditative linework in the studio or creating space for others to explore their own creative voices,Gideon’s practice is grounded in a sense of purpose, inquiry, and care.
Originally from the desert town of Arandis, Gideon’s creative journey began with a background in architecture, a discipline that continues to shape her precise sense of balance, structure, and spatial awareness. Her visual practice—largely rooted in drawing and painting—stems from the natural world and the search for healing and identity. Often beginning with a single line, her compositions unfold as rhythmic, meditative patterns that chart the quiet repetitions of daily life and the deeper emotional and spiritual undercurrents of human experience. She often explores dualities: light and shadow, silence and voice, chaos and order. Through this visual language, she constructs what she calls “maps of becoming”—and often returns to portraiture as a way of revealing not just a face, but a feeling, a thought, a whole inner world.
In 2022, Gideon was selected to participate in the Baker’s Bay Artists’ Retreat in the Tsau //Khaeb (Sperrgebiet) National Park, a protected area rich with ecological and historical resonance. Immersed in this remote and aweinspiring landscape, she produced a work titled Wonders Around Me , a painting that channeled the solitude, silence, and ancient memory of the environment. That same residency also sparked a creative partnership with acclaimed Namibian artist Nicky Marais. Their duo exhibition Side by Side, curated by StArt Art Gallery and shown at The Sweet Side of Thingz in 2023, brought together two distinct yet dialoguing practices—Marais working with symbols and environment, Gideon turning inward toward silence and form. Together, their work opened up a space for cross-generational exchange and visual introspection.
Building on her belief in the collective as a site for nurturing creative ecosystems, Gideon founded the Creative Asylum in early 2024. Located in Windhoek’s Northern Industrial Area, the space functioned as a free art studio and residency program as a resource for emerging Namibian creatives—visual artists, musicians, writers, and more. The Asylum offered relief from structural barriers, such as lack of access to materials, mentorship, and community. The first residency cycle culminated in a group exhibition at the Franco-Namibian Cultural Centre, where participating artists tackled themes such as mental health, body image, and self-determination. The Creative Asylum stands as both a platform and a sanctuary—proof of Gideon’s belief in art as a tool for healing and connection.
Since her first solo exhibition Rainbow of Emotions in 2017 at the FNCC, Gideon has remained an active and vital contributor to Namibia’s art scene. She has participated in numerous group shows, including We Will Be Free, an international exhibition that addressed themes of freedom and postcolonial identity. Through her art and her community-focused projects, Jakobina Gideon’s work invites us to pause, to reflect, and to reconnect—with ourselves, each other, and the world around us.
Muningandu Hoveka
Jakobina Gideon’s work is currently featured in a group show at The Sweet Side of Thingz in Windhoek located in Independence Avenue.
StArt Art Gallery info@startartgallery.com
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Building a balanced and inclusive energy future NAMIBIA’S ENERGY MOMENT
Namibia is no longer just a promising frontier in Africa’s energy narrative — it is fast becoming one of its defining chapters. With recent world-class oil discoveries in the Orange Basin and sustained investor attention, the country is on the cusp of unlocking a new era of economic transformation. However, as global industry leaders made clear at the recent Africa Energies Summit in London, this moment will only translate into long-term national prosperity if approached with clarity, consistency, and strategic coordination.
“Namibia offers something rare: peace, predictability, and a long-term vision for progress in a world increasingly defined by volatility and fragmentation,” noted Philip Chapman, CEO of RMB Namibia, during his opening address at the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) in Windhoek. “True transformation depends not just on resources, but on the enabling environment we’ve worked hard to build.”
This sentiment echoed strongly in London, where global energy financiers, operators, and policymakers gathered to assess Africa’s place in the evolving energy landscape. One of Namibia’s strongest voices on that international stage was Angelique Peake, RMB Namibia’s head of Oil & Gas, who participated in a high-level panel titled “Shaping Africa’s Future: Finance and Investment for Upstream Growth.”
progress and fund future diversification. But as enthusiasm around local content and development mandates grows, so too must strategic patience.
“Trying to lock in too many local requirements too early — before projects even get off the ground — can risk making Namibia less competitive,” Peake cautioned. “Local content is not a checkbox; it’s a journey. We need the technical and financial specialists to unlock the early-stage value, while setting up frameworks that gradually build local participation into the ecosystem.”
This pragmatic, forward-looking stance — shared by public and private sector leaders — will ultimately set Namibia apart. This approach is already deeply embedded in the bank’s philosophy at RMB Namibia.
This moment demands financial institutions that do more than fund, that help shape, navigate, and accelerate development outcomes.
“Exploration is back in focus globally,” Peake noted. “There’s a growing consensus that without continued exploration, we risk a future supply crunch. Regions like Namibia, especially the Orange Basin, are at the centre of that conversation. But opportunity alone is not enough — policy clarity, predictability, and commercially viable frameworks are the real currency of investment.”
Her insights highlight a crucial inflexion point for Namibia: the country is in an investment race with geology and governance. In a capital-constrained world, Africa’s upstream prospects are judged by how quickly, transparently, and competitively they can get to first oil. Namibia’s regulatory and fiscal landscape must therefore continue to evolve — and do so with urgency and confidence.
Yet the challenge extends beyond attracting foreign capital. As Peake emphasised, Africa’s energy transition must be understood on its own terms. “Decarbonisation is a global priority, but many parts of Africa are still building their energy base. For Namibia, the goal is reliability, industrialisation, and inclusive growth. We have to build before we can transition.” This balanced perspective is critical. It challenges binary thinking and embraces sequenced, innovative development: responsibly exploiting hydrocarbons today to fuel inclusive
“We don’t see ourselves as just a financier,” said Chapman. “We are a long-term partner to Namibia’s energy future — offering deep sector expertise, strong local understanding, and a full-service corporate and investment banking platform capable of supporting complex, large-scale projects from upstream to infrastructure.”
RMB Namibia’s positioning reflects what this moment demands: financial institutions that do more than fund — they help shape, navigate, and accelerate development outcomes.
Namibia now stands at the intersection of promise and delivery. The reserves are real, the global attention is high, and the foundational governance is sound. But to truly lead in Africa’s energy future, the country must continue to signal seriousness, through clear policies, reliable timelines, and bold yet balanced execution.
As Chapman concluded at NIEC, “Namibia is ready; now is the time for all relevant stakeholders to act. Policymakers, financiers, global operators, and local businesses must work hand in hand to achieve optimal and balanced outcomes for all stakeholders. We are patient — but also in a hurry.”
This is Namibia’s energy moment.. The world is watching — and investing. It’s time to lead with clarity, with confidence, and with collective purpose.
WALVIS BAY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
The Walvis Bay International Airport is the second major gateway that is developed and managed by NAC. The Airport is strategically located in the dunes of the Namib Desert about fifteen (15) kms from the harbor town of Walvis Bay. The Airport will give you easy and timely access to the mesmerizing Namibian coastline which also hosts the historic town of Swakopmund as well as the famous dunes in the Namib Desert.
Boasting a revamped state of the art terminal building opened in 2016, the Airport handles daily flights to Windhoek, Johannesburg and Cape Town, while enjoying the spectacular scenes of the Namib Desert, the world’s oldest desert.
Walvis Bay International Airport is a prime leader in cargo handling for marine, coastal and mining activities in the area. For travel schedules and more, contact the airport information office at: Tel: +264 64 271 100 | Email: communications@airports.com.na Find us at and www.airports.com.na
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Trade between Namibia and South Africa
Navigating Indirect Taxes
Recently, import tariffs have become quite a topical issue, with US president, Donald Trump, increasing tariffs quite substantially for many countries. These tariffs are, in the main, customs tariffs. It is now a good time, more than ever, to consider indirect tax implications for importing goods between the two Southern African neighbours.
Indirect taxes mainly consist of customs duties and valueadded tax (VAT). From a customs perspective, both South Africa and Namibia are members of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), established in 1910, making it the world’s oldest customs union, with a common external tariff and shared customs revenues that allow for less strenuous customs clearance procedures between its members.
Namibia and South Africa are also members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which allows for the importation of goods between the two countries to be free from customs duty. Customs duty for Namibian and South African businesses is, therefore, generally not an additional cost. The same, however, cannot be said for VAT.
Both countries’ VAT legislation operates a regime where the importation of goods is subject to VAT at 15% in both Namibia and South Africa. VAT is payable by the importer of the goods and depends on the customs value thereof as determined by customs legislation. Therefore, it is very important for businesses to understand the customs valuation principles set out in the Namibian and South African customs legislation. For goods imported from South Africa to Namibia, the value of imported goods for VAT purposes is the greater of the free-on-board (FOB) value plus 10% of that value or the open market value of the goods. For importation from Namibia to South Africa, the
VAT is calculated based only on the customs value of the goods (there is no 10% “step-up”).
The goods’ sale terms are also critical in establishing who the importer of record is, as the importer is liable for VAT in the relevant country of importation. The Incoterms are therefore essential, as, for example, a sale on the FOB basis would effectively make the buyer the importer. In contrast, a delivery-duty-paid (DDP) basis would make the seller the importer. Furthermore, it is important to consider which party is responsible for the exportation and the mode of transport to determine whether the seller may zero-rate the supply of the goods for VAT purposes. Whether the supply constitutes a direct or an indirect export has a significant impact on whether the seller has to levy VAT on the sale of the goods. In addition to the importation and exportation considerations, the two countries’ VAT legislation provides for the importation of goods under certain circumstances to be exempt from VAT.
Businesses are strongly encouraged to obtain professional tax advice from reputable advisors to ensure that they navigate the indirect tax implications of trade between South Africa and Namibia effectively and avoid unnecessary additional costs.
Leonard Willemse Director, Indirect Tax
Private Sector Credit Extension (PSCE) – March 2025
Credit Growth Trends
Private Sector Credit Extension (PSCE) growth accelerated to 5.0% y/y in March 2025, up from 3.9% y/y in February, marking the strongest expansion since March 2020. This sharp improvement was underpinned by robust growth in corporate credit, while household credit showed a slight uptick. The data suggests that overall credit appetite is gradually recovering, supported by more confident business borrowing patterns and sustained instalment credit demand.
Business Credit Expansion
Corporate credit growth surged to 8.2% y/y in March, from 5.9% y/y in February, the highest rate since December 2019. This acceleration was driven by strong uptake in other loans and advances (14.8% y/y), instalment and leasing credit (20.6% y/y), and a return to positive overdraft credit growth (4.6% y/y) after 13 consecutive months of contraction. Key sectors driving demand included mining, energy, tourism, manufacturing, and financial services, indicating a broadbased recovery in economic activity.
Mortgage credit within the business segment remained on the contraction side at -2.3% y/y, reflecting ongoing caution in the commercial real estate market. Despite improved borrowing conditions, firms appear to be prioritising assetlight strategies and managing risk more conservatively, especially amid global uncertainty and rising import costs.
Overall, the rebound in business credit signals renewed investment momentum. However, with interest rates still relatively high and broader economic headwinds persisting, businesses continue to balance credit expansion with financial prudence.
Household Credit Remains Stagnant
Household credit growth edged higher to 2.8% y/y in March, from 2.6% y/y in February, but remains subdued by historical standards. Growth was mainly supported by instalment and leasing credit, which rose to 14.5% y/y, echoing continued strength in the vehicle market and consumer durables segment.
In contrast, mortgage credit growth declined to 0.6% y/y (from 0.7% y/y in February), indicating softness in the residential property market. While overdraft credit for households did show some recovery nationally, the overall expansion remains modest, suggesting persistent structural constraints, including affordability issues and slow income growth.
The growth in other loans and advances remained solid at 7.9% y/y, with uptake concentrated among mid-income households seeking flexible financing solutions.
Corporate Credit Trends
Namibia’s total corporate debt stock rose further in March 2025, reaching a new high, reflecting renewed momentum in business borrowing. Corporate credit grew by 8.2% y/y, up significantly from 5.9% y/y in February, marking the strongest annual expansion since December 2019. On a month-onmonth basis, the stock increased by N$1 billion, underscoring improved corporate sentiment and liquidity demand across several sectors.
• Instalment and Leasing Credit grew by 20.6% y/y, up slightly from February’s 20.4%, but still indicative of strong investment activity, particularly in transport, mining, and equipment-related sectors. The elevated uptake points to capital expenditure among firms upgrading vehicle fleets and acquiring durable assets.
• Other Loans and Advances surged to 14.8% y/y in March (up from 9.6% in February), with demand concentrated in manufacturing and energy. This suggests strategic credit usage for project financing and working capital needs.
• Overdraft Facilities posted 4.6% y/y growth in March, recovering from 0.3% in February. The return to growth after over a year of contraction signals improved operational cash flow requirements and a tentative return to flexible credit lines.
• Mortgage Loans decreased to -2.3% y/y, slipping from -0.2% the previous month. This indicates that the commercial property market remains weak, with businesses continuing to delay large real estate investments in favour of more liquid or short-term financing structures.
Overall, the business credit environment is showing clear signs of recovery, supported by improved confidence in key sectors and demand-side tailwinds. Structural reforms, such as corporate tax reductions (from 32% to 30%) and favourable credit conditions, are likely to sustain the upward trajectory into Q2 2025.
Households
Namibia’s household debt stock reached N$129 billion in March 2025, up N$23.8 million month-on-month, reflecting a gradual return of consumer borrowing appetite. Household credit rose by 2.8% y/y, slightly higher than the 2.6% y/y in February, yet still muted in comparison to prepandemic norms.
• Mortgage Credit growth decelerated to 0.6% y/y, reversing the modest momentum seen earlier in
the year. This stagnation highlights persistent affordability challenges amid elevated home prices and weak wage growth.
• Other loans and advances held steady at 7.9% y/y in March, following a notable increase in February. The sustained growth points to continued reliance on flexible credit facilities, particularly among middle-income households seeking accessible financing options.
Short-Term Credit Trends: Overdrafts vs. Instalment Sales
• Overdraft Facilities for households continued to show recovery, with a 12.5% y/y growth in March. The rebound from declines seen earlier in the year indicates shifting sentiment and a need for short-term liquidity support.
• Instalment and Leasing Credit stood firm at 14.5% y/y, rising from 12.3% y/y in February. The strength of this segment is underpinned by high vehicle sales and growing consumer demand for durables.
Liquidity
and Foreign Reserves
The liquidity position of Namibia’s banking sector remained robust in March 2025, though slightly lower than the previous month. Commercial bank liquidity averaged N$9.4 billion, down from N$9.9 billion in February. This modest decline was largely attributable to increased foreign payments during
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the review period, including higher importrelated outflows.
Despite the dip, liquidity levels remain elevated by historical standards, indicating that banks continue to be well-capitalised and capable of supporting credit extension across sectors. The prevailing conditions provide a buffer against potential financial tightening, especially as interest rates remain high.
In contrast, international reserves fell to N$59.7 billion by the end of March 2025, a 7.4% monthon-month decrease. The drop was mainly driven by a rise in imports and increased foreign expenditure by the government. This brought import cover down to 3.9 months, or 4.8 months when excluding oil exploration and appraisal activities, which are largely funded externally.
Broad Money Supply (M2):
Reflecting External Factors
A Deceleration
The growth of the broad money supply (M2) moderated further in March 2025, decelerating to 10.1% y/y, down from 10.6% y/y in February and 11.1% in January. The slowdown was primarily driven by a decline in domestic claims, which eased to 9.2% y/y (from 14.6% y/y), despite a significant improvement in Net Foreign Assets (NFA), which rose sharply to 19.8% y/y, up from 4.2% y/y.
On the liabilities side:
• Currency outside depository corporations slowed to 6.0% y/y from 8.0% y/y,
• While other, longer-term deposits grew more strongly, accelerating to 17.4% y/y (from 13.9% y/y).
The trend suggests a shift in financial behaviour toward longerdated savings instruments, possibly reflecting increased caution and higher nominal deposit rates in a high-interestrate environment.
The cooling in M2 growth signals a potential moderation in liquidity-fuelled inflationary pressures, though the system remains liquid enough to support continued credit growth, particularly to businesses. Sustained deposit growth also reinforces financial system stability amid heightened global uncertainty.
ART-CAN-TRANSFORM
Breathing New Life into the heart of Oranjemund
In a town once closed to the public and built solely to serve the diamond industry, transformation is now on the cards, with the aim of enhancing the attractive qualities of Oranjemund and giving visitors a unique experience. OMDis Town Transformation Agency has for the past 6 (six) years been laying groundwork for accelerating the economic diversification of Oranjemund, focusing primarily on large industries like agriculture and tourism. The agency has played a transformative role through a range of initiatives aimed at diversifying the town’s identity and economy.
Among these, the Art-Can-Transform project, launched in 2021, stands out for its promotion of art, craft, and culture in Oranjemund. This project has demonstrated the potential of creative expression to enrich lives, generate income, and help position Oranjemund as a distinctive travel destination.
The project began with the commissioning of 10 large-scale public murals, three public sculptural pieces, and a light installation in the newly re-curated local museum. These works were created by prominent Namibian artists, including some born and raised in Oranjemund itself. Since then, the concept of public art has taken root across various sectors of the town, growing to a total of 26 artworks. Oranjemund is proud to play its part in driving public contemporary art displays in Namibia.
A particularly inspiring element of the Art-Can-Transform initiative has been introducing artists to a region long known to Namibians by its romantic and remote name, “Sperrgebiet.”
Over the past four years, three artists’ retreats, each two weeks long, have been hosted and sponsored by Namdeb and OMDis. These retreats have welcomed 28 Namibian and international artists into this spectacular and secluded wilderness. Painters, sculptors, and conceptual artists alike have drawn inspiration from the isolation and intense creative energy, resulting in an array of remarkable artworks.
Each retreat culminated in a final exhibition of the participants’ works, first in Oranjemund, and then again in Windhoek, offering a broader audience a rare glimpse into this captivating area. Highlights from past retreats are available on the YouTube channel OMDis Baker's Bay Artists' Retreat
At the heart of this cultural revival is the OMDis Art Centre, now a thriving hub of creativity and opportunity. Opened in November 2023 and adorned with a vibrant wrap-around mural, the centre has quickly become a beacon in the town. With more than 250 students passing through each month, the centre pulses with artistic energy. It offers classes in music, painting, sculpting, sewing, and leatherwork. Local instructors provide daily sessions for toddlers, schoolchildren and adults, while visiting specialists teach advanced techniques, ensuring that creativity is both nurtured and elevated. An on-site exhibition space, added recently, has already hosted several shows by renowned local artists.
Further expanding its artistic footprint, the Art-CanTransform project launched an ambitious Artists Residency Programme. Namibian and international artists are invited to live and work in Oranjemund for a month, immersing themselves in a unique creative environment. The programme piloted in 2024 with two Namibian artists and one from South Africa, who responded to the setting with enthusiasm and innovation. In 2025, the residency will welcome two artists from Windhoek and one from Germany for another month of artistic exploration and expression.
Given the town’s rich culture, deep history, biodiversity, and the intrigue that surrounds Oranjemund, tourism is becoming a key pillar in ensuring sustainability beyond mining.
The OMDis Town Transformation Agency was created as a special purpose vehicle in 2019 and formed part of a strategic initiative by Namdeb Diamond Corporation in collaboration with the Oranjemund Town Council, to ensure the longterm sustainability of Oranjemund beyond diamond mining. Through the agency, the town is redefining its narrative and embracing the ethos of mining for good. These efforts affirm Namdeb’s commitment to contributing to a community that thrives not only today, but also laying the foundation for a better tomorrow.
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This year we're focussing on telling and sharing STORIES THAT MATTER across our various magazines and digital platforms. Join the journey and share your stories with audiences that understand and value why certain things matter.
Why ethical business, conservation, tourism, people and communities matter. How these elements interrelate and how we can bring about change, contribute to the world and support each other. Whether for an entire nation, an industry, a community, or even just an individual.
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JUNE IN NUMBERS
A snapshot of the strange, spectacular, and sky-bound milestones happening across Africa (and above it) this June.
4,900
SQUARE KILOMETRES – tthe size of Namibia’s Zambezi Region, which comes alive in June as safari season kicks off. With FlyNamibia flying directly to Katima Mulilo, it’s the ideal time to explore this lush corner of the country.
25.4°C
IS THE AVERAGE TEMPERATURE in Windhoek in June – warm days, crisp evenings, and perfect skies for flying, hiking, and stargazing. Namibia’s winter months are a dream for photographers and travellers alike.
50,000
CUBIC METRES – that’s how much water flows every second over Victoria Falls in peak flow. By June, levels are still high enough for stunning views but low enough for adrenaline seekers to safely experience white-water rafting.
21
1965
THE YEAR the Organisation of African Unity officially declared 16 June as
1,100+
ELEPHANTS migrate through the Zambezi floodplains in June. Namibia’s northeastern corner becomes a haven for large mammals, with wildlife sightings doubling as water becomes scarce further
JUNE is the Winter Solstice – the shortest day of the year in Namibia. But with over 10 hours of sunshine still, there’s no such thing as a bad travel day under the African sun.
200
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS
help guide flights through Namibia’s vast skies, operating across 4 regional airports. June marks a peak month for private charters and aerial safaris, requiring razor-sharp coordination and 24/7 vigilance.
80,000
FLAMINGOS can be seen near Walvis Bay in winter months, feeding and nesting along the coast. June is a prime time for birders to catch this flamboyant crowd before they migrate inland
ACROSS
3. One of the world's oldest deserts
4. New FlyNamibia cargo box launched in 2024
6. Desert antelope
7. Historic coastal ghost town near Lüderitz
9. International airport outside Windhoek: _ KUTAKO
11. Namibia's only airline
15.Spotted feline, Namibia is home to largest population
16.Namibian term of respect for an elder or leader (Oshiwambo)
17. Black gold extracted from beneath the earth
SUDUKO
DOWN
1. Stripes plains animal often seen in Etosha
2. Region home to the Katima Mulilo and lush wildlife
3. Namibian currency
5. World-famous national park with a salt pan
7. Vast desert in the south shared with South Africa
8. Iconic coastal town known for dunes and German heritage
10. The capital city of Namibia
12. Home of annual speed challenge
13. Namibia’s founding president
14. Namibian Independence Day is celebrated in this month
16. Popular Namibian beer brewed in Windhoek
The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9.
In the vast desert of southern Namibia, a lone oryx crosses the open plain. Dwarfed by space and stone, it walks with quiet purpose, reminding us just how immense and humbling this landscape truly is.
